Lion's Head
First half of the 5th century BC
Etruria
Bronze; h 26 cm
Etruscan bronzes in the Hermitage reveal the
great skill of ancient bronzesmiths. Engraved
rosettes and stars above the beast's ears and
eyes in this piece may indicate a link with the
cult of the dead and the entire sculpture
might thus have decorated the entrance to a
necropolis. Poised ready to spring, the lion is
full of inner tension. This sculpture, a
remarkable example of monumental Etruscan
bronzes, combines both realistic traditions
and stylised elements.
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