A Roman Bronze Appliqué of Eros, ca. 2nd century CE

a graceful appliqué of the young Eros wearing a low tunic, exposing the right shoulder, the sweet chubby face finely detailed with idealized nose, ears, and mouth. His head is turned to the left and eyes gazing downward over his shoulder, away from the cornucopia cradled in his right arm.

Background:  This most charming bronze depicts one of the most famous and revered images from Classical Antiquity: Eros or more widely known as Cupid. Cupid is the god of desire, erotic love, attraction, and affection. He is often portrayed as the son of the love goddess Venus. Although Eros appears in Classical Greek art as a slender winged youth, during the Hellenistic period, he was increasingly portrayed as a chubby boy. 

Condition:  Intact and in excellent condition overall. 

Dimensions:  Height: 5 inches (12.7 cm), Mounted Height: 6 inches (15.24 cm) 

Provenance:   Peter Borromeo private collection, Virginia.