Greek, Hellenistic 3rd-1st cent. B.C. Bronze, gilding. H. 2 19/32 in; 6.6 cm. W. 1 27/64 in; 3.6 cm

High quality bronze fitting sculpted in great detail in the form of bust, likely representing a deity, with a lack of attributes making precise identification elusive. The fine strands of hair are centrally parted. Some are folded and drawn to the back of the head, whilst other wavy tresses cascade onto the shoulders. The plastic rendering of the hair above forehead is striking and could perhaps represent a loop or knot in the hair. In this case, the figure might represent Apollo, especially since no breasts are visible beneath the drapery. The reverse of the head is rounded, that of the bust has an angular recess. Three small perforations at the corners served to attach the fitting. The extensively preserved gilding indicates that the fitting once decorated a precious object, perhaps a piece of furniture.
 

Nose slightly worn.

Formerly priv. coll. Austria, acquired in the 1990s on the art market. With Hermann Historica, auction 75, 9 & 10 November 2017, lot 4454, Munich.