Description:
Depicting the god Eros-Cupid, who is shown as a naked young boy, winged and in a striding position, walking to his right, looking back over his left shoulder. His hands are shown in a surprising way, touching the frame of the scene as if the young god is ready to step out of the scene, or is holding or pushing the frame.
In Classical Greek art Eros is usually depicted as a slender youth, but later, starting in the Hellenistic period, he was increasingly portrayed as a chubby boy.
Dating:
Roman, circa third century C.E.
Size:
Height 22 cm.
Provenance:
With The Glade Gallery, New Orleans, Louisiana, 1950s-1960s; with New Orleans Auction Galleries, New Orleans, L.A., Major Estates Auction, 4 April 2009, lot 693; with Christie's London, 4 December 2019, lot 471.
Condition:
Fragment as shown, with a rich mottled cream patination and some dirt staining. The top left corner was broken off but has been glued back, with some glue residue visible along the repair lines. Chipping to the fingers of the proper left hand. The lower part of the legs is missing. Otherwise in a very good condition. Mounted onto a backing board and mount. A gallery label from Glade Gallery on the back of the mount, underneath another paper label.
Price:
€ 9,800
Stock number:
C1344