The figure portrays a Roman god, possibly Jupiter or Neptune. Appliqués, such as this fine example, would have been mounted on a piece of furniture or a jewellery box. It was a custom for the Ancient Romans, especially the wealthy, to have highly decorated everyday life objects, such as jewellery boxes or toiletries tables. The subjects could vary between portraits of women, to depictions of gods or natural elements or animals.
To learn more about everyday bronze items in the Classical World, visit our relevant post: Everyday Items in the Classical World.
