Description

C19th Italian 'Grand Tour' souvenir bronze after the antique of " Augustus Caesar Prima Porta". Well-cast and sharply detailed bronze copy of the iconic marble antique original of the Imperator , the first of the Roman Emperors 27 BC- 14 AD. In this study Augustus is depicted as commander-in-chief of the Roman army , dressed in military attire , posed with his arm raised as an orator probably addressing his legions , and carrying a consular baton. The elements combining to portray both the martial and political characteristics of the great leader. The 2m high original 1st Century AD marble statue was discovered in 1863 in the grounds of the Villa of Livia at Prima Porta near Rome, and is now shown in the 'Braccio Nuovo' of the Vatican Museums. The 'cuirass' or breast-plate, is finely detailed with bas-reliefs featuring diverse Roman deities including Mars the God of war, Diana, Apollo and Sol the sun god. The design also features symbolism and personifications of conquered territories and celebrates his victories in Hispania, Gaul, Germania and Parthia, and the return of the lost Roman legionary eagles , as well as Augustus's establishment of Pax Romana.The sphinxes on the shoulders represent the defeat of Cleopatra, the sheathed sword represents the subjected peoples (ie The Celts) , whilst the back of the cuirass is decorated with a large spread-eagle.The small cupid at his feet(riding on a dolphin ,Venus's patron animal)is a reference to the claim that the Julian family were direct descendants of the goddess Venus. The bare-footed pose also alludes to his status as a hero, and perhaps even him being regarded a god , as was the deified Julius Caesar his great-uncle.
Good consistent patination, one small joint 'opening' on the upper part of the out-stretched arm.
H 20" x W 8" x D 6".
Italy c.1880
Established in the Cathedral City of Worcester for over 40 years ,M.Lees&Sons , run by Michael Lees ,have been dealing with public and trade from show-rooms in an early Georgian town-house. We aim to provide a straight-forward approach to our business and build lasting relationships with our customers. As members of the 'London and Provincial Antique Dealers Association' , we provide full descriptive details , date ,authenticity and any available provenance ,with full disclosure of any restoration or repair which may have taken place .
Whether buying for pleasure , decoration or investment, we welcome you to our web-site or premises .
Past projects have included advising clients on forming and disposing of collections , furnishing period properties , hotel and commercial projects , also a shoot-room and lodge .
All goods are available to view and owned by M.Lees&Sons .
If visiting, a telephone call prior is advisable as due to the demands of the business the show-room does not have regular hours . Please feel free to contact us if we can be of assistance . Our inventory on Selling Antiques showcases our range of stock, whilst more items are available to view on our website. Please visit us on:
www.leesantiquesworcester.com.
Tel. 01905 26620 / 07860826218
Located in the centre of Worcester in the shadow of the Cathedral with easy parking nearby. Exit Junction 7 M5 and follow the signs for Worcester Porcelain Museum . Our premises are located 100 metres from the Museum and 50 metres from Pay&Display car-park in nearby King St.
Internal Ref: MLAF 1412