Subasta Bidspirit | Roman wagon applique in shape

Roman wagon applique in shape of eagle and duck head - ITEM: Wagon applique in shape of eagle and duck head MATERIAL: Brnze CULTURE: Roman PERIOD: 1st - 3rd Century A.D DIMENSIONS: 65 mm x 48 mm CONDITION: Good condition PROVENANCE: Ex English private collection, acquired between 1970 - 1990 Comes with Certificate of Authenticity and Export Licence. If you are from outside the European Union, we will have to apply for the export licence again for your country, this takes 3 to 5 weeks and has a cost of 5% of the hammer price, this amount will be added to the final invoice. A Roman wagon applique shaped like an eagle or duck head served as an ornamental piece, typically attached to ceremonial or military vehicles. These appliques were often crafted in bronze and designed to convey power, protection, and prestige. The eagle, in particular, held significant symbolism in Roman culture, representing Jupiter, the king of the gods, and becoming a symbol of the Roman Empire itself. Thus, an eagle-shaped applique would signal strength, dominance, and divine favor. Meanwhile, a duck head shape could represent themes related to water, fertility, or pastoral life, as ducks and other animals had their own symbolic value within Roman mythology and art. The detail and craftsmanship of such appliques reveal the Roman commitment to artistry and symbolism in even practical items like wagons and chariots. These items were likely attached to vehicles used in parades, religious ceremonies, or military contexts, allowing the display of Roman iconography in public spaces. The combination of both an eagle and duck head might reflect dual themes, such as the unification of military prowess (eagle) with peaceful or prosperous associations (duck), creating a dynamic piece that embodied multiple aspects of Roman ideology. The use of bronze also suggests durability and the intention to convey wealth and power, as bronze was both visually impressive and resistant to wear. Artifacts like these appliques provide insight into Roman decorative arts and the importance of symbolic expression in everyday objects.