The boar played a relevant role in ancient Greek and Roman culture. It was often associated with its capacity to destroy humans and crops, with boar hunting consequently becoming a popular pastime amongst Romans, considered to be strengthening for the body and mind. The boar was also a recurring motif in myths: hunting down the Erymanthian Boar was Hercules’ fourth labour, and the hunt of the Calydonian Boar had made a name for Atalanta’s skills. This particular example might have also belonged to a soldier, as the boar was a common symbol across different Roman military legions.
Roman Silver Brooch with Wild Boar
£ 850.00
An extremely fine Ancient Roman silver brooch, modelled in the shape of a wild boar, rendered in high relief. The wild boar appears to be striding forwards, with one of the front legs raised high, maybe suggesting it is running, possibly during a hunt. Its anatomical features are rendered in a highly naturalistic manner. Great detailing to the mantle of the animal, the hooves and facial features make this an outstanding example of the exceptional ancient Roman craftsmanship. Weight: 13.7 g.
Provenance: Ex London, UK, collection, in the 1990s.
Condition: Extremely fine, the metal is in excellent condition. Modern attachment pin.
SOLD
