Art Across the Ages, A Selection of Treasured Works
Nationality
Roman
Title of Work
Preview
Date of Work
c. 1st-3rd century CE
Medium
Bronze
Height
1 1/2"
Width
1 3/16"
Depth
7/8"
Collection/Provenance
Art & Design Study Collection
Status
Stored: S3D
Location
UND Art Collections Repository
Additional Information
The small sculpture, which was influenced by earlier Greek Classical art, represents the Roman god of war. It was cast solid in bronze by the “lost-wax” (or “cire-perdu”) method.
In making the cast sculpture, the bust was first formed as a wax model. Then the wax model was surrounded with clay, which was built up into a mold. After the mold dried, the wax was melted out through a hole. Then molten metal was poured into the mold. During the “lost-wax” process, neither the mold or wax model survive and only one cast can be made.
Fantastic bronze chariot fitting depicting the bust of Mars, the god of war. He is shown wearing cuirass and tunic, gazing upward and to the right. His helmet once was adorned with a crest, lost in antiquity. This was likely a chariot element, the remains of the iron rivet still attached to the back. The rounded area behind his neck apparently was used to hang reins or rope, evidenced by signs of wear. Deep olive-green patina.