Marble Head of an Athlete

Culture: Roman

Period: 1st century A.D.

Material: Marble

Dimensions: 11 cm high

Price: Sold

Ref: 3213

Provenance: Belgian private collection 1972-1987. Thence with Jean Phillip Mariaud De Serres, Paris, late 1980s to 1990s. Since the 1990s in a Swiss private collection. Bonhams auction on 16 April 2015, lot 141.

Condition: Break on the left back of the head, not affecting the expression of the head from the front and the right side. A small chip on the chin.

Description: Very finely worked marble head of an athlete with juvenile features and deep set almond-shaped eyes. The short, wavy hair held with a hairband, thick streaks falling into the forehead, temples and neck. The mouth is closed, the expression with a slightly cheerful serenity. Of extraordinary quality. Mounted.