ostracon ancient art
catalogue

Very Rare Roman Lamp with Emperor Bust and Lares Militares, 1st Half 1st Century AD

The discus shows the bust of a younger man with cropped hair, flanked by lares militares. These guardians of the soldiers stand on low pedestals and wear tunics. They hold palm fronds in one hand and raise the other in salute.

The man wears a cloak called paludamentum, which used to be fastened at one shoulder.

Originally also worn by military leaders, the paludamentum was reserved for the emperor since the time of Augustus.

L. 10.5 cm (4.1 in), W. 7.6 cm (3 in)

Rare depiction . Intact with slight wear. Surface and cavities with remains of an orange slip.

Ex Swiss private collection Peter-Adank (1940-1991), acquired between 1957 and 1968 during his journeys in the Middle East. Thence by descent. Collection entries joined.

950 USD