A Roman Marble Relief Fragment with Mare and Foal, Roman Imperial Period, 1st - 3rd century CE
RS2601
- This object qualifies for free USA shipping and a flat rate fee of $60 if shipping internationally.
Finely carved in high relief, this fragmentary marble panel depicts a mare lowering her head protectively toward her nursing foal. Despite the fragmentary nature of the composition, the sculptor conveyed a notable sense of tenderness and naturalism through the intimate interaction between the two animals. The grouping likely formed part of a larger decorative program, possibly from a sarcophagus frieze, funerary monument, or architectural revetment.
Animal imagery played an important role in Roman decorative arts, particularly in funerary contexts, where scenes drawn from nature could symbolize care, continuity, fertility, and renewal. The sensitive rendering of the mare’s bowed head and the colt positioned beneath her body reflects the Roman interest in naturalistic observation inherited from earlier Hellenistic traditions.
Traces of original blue pigment remain in the carving's recessed areas, providing rare evidence of the vibrant polychromy that once enlivened Roman marble sculpture. Although modern viewers often associate classical marble with monochrome surfaces, many Roman reliefs and statuary were originally painted in vivid colors.
Medium: Marble
Dimensions: Height: 4 3/4 inches (12 cm), Width: 5 1/4 inches (13 cm)
Condition: Fragmentary as preserved, with expected losses and surface wear consistent with age. Traces of original blue polychrome remain visible. Mounted on a custom mid-20th century display base. Overall, in good condition and visually compelling.
Provenance: Private New York City collection, acquired from Sotheby Parke Bernet, January 21, 1975, sale number 395, lot 239, with lot sticker and a copy of the sales receipt. Old collection stickers and a yellow Sotheby's sales sticker on the base.
Sands of Time provides a lifetime, unconditional guarantee of authenticity and provenance. Every object you purchase from us is accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity, stating culture, provenance, and age.
Furthermore, we conduct due diligence to ensure the item, to the best of our knowledge, has not been illegally obtained from an excavation, architectural monument, public institution, or private property. Wherever possible, reference is made to existing collections or publications.Wherever possible, reference is made to existing collections or publications.
We ship Tuesday to Friday with FedEx and usually same day if your order is received before 2pm. Within the continental USA, packing, shipping and insurance is free. Depending on size and destination, delivery times range from one to five business days.
For overseas shipments we charge a small flat rate which includes packing, preparation of all customs paperwork, insurance and carrier fees in compliance with all USA and International customs requirements. Overseas shipments are sent using either USPS Priority Mail or FedEx but contact us if you have a shipping preference. International customers are responsible for all duties and taxes.
