Antique Historic Classical Mythology Roman Bronze Plaque Mount Depicting Hercules (Heracles)

Details

Description

Antique Historic Classical Mythology Roman Bronze Plaque Sculpture Mount Depicting Hercules (Heracles)
Ancient Roman-era cast bronze relief | Classical mythological … Read more Antique Historic Classical Mythology Roman Bronze Plaque Sculpture Mount Depicting Hercules (Heracles)
Ancient Roman-era cast bronze relief | Classical mythological subject | Collectors’ antiquity
A superb ancient Roman bronze plaque / mount depicting Hercules (Heracles)—the legendary hero celebrated across the Roman world as a symbol of strength, endurance, and victory. The figure is presented in heroic nudity, with the composition framed by a classical Ionic column, lending the scene an unmistakably Roman “temple/portico” character.
Hercules is traditionally recognised in Greco-Roman art by his lion skin (trophy from his first labour) and club—his most enduring attributes. On this example, the relief’s surviving forms and draped massing align with canonical Hercules iconography, notwithstanding expected wear from age and use.
This plaque is substantial in-hand (0.2 kg) and well-suited to its original decorative function as an appliqué / mount of the type Romans commonly fixed to furniture, boxes, or luxury domestic fittings.

Historical Significance
Hercules was among the most enduring heroic figures in Roman culture and appears widely in Roman art because he embodied ideals admired by Romans: virtus (courage/manly excellence), endurance under trial, and victory through effort. His image was not merely decorative—it carried meaning in domestic and public life, functioning as a symbol of strength and protective power.
Small bronze mounts such as this also reflect elite Roman taste. These bronzes were commonly used to embellish high-quality household and ceremonial objects—furniture, caskets, and fittings—bringing classical imagery into everyday spaces.
The inclusion of an architectural column strengthens the classical visual language, suggesting a monumental or sacred setting and reflecting refined Roman decorative taste.

Measurements & Weight


Length: 6.8 cm


Width: 5.8 cm


Depth: 1.1 cm


Weight: 0.2 kg (200 g)



Provenance
From an old international collection. Acquired from a notable dealer in the southern Shires and curated by Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD.

Why You’ll Love It


Iconic subject: Hercules is one of the most instantly recognisable and collectible figures of classical antiquity.


Meaningful symbolism: strength, protection, resilience, and triumph—ideal as a cabinet piece or study object.


Architectural framing: the Ionic column elevates it beyond a simple figure plaque into a composed classical scene.


Excellent presence: 200 grams of bronze—substantial and convincing in-hand.


Display appeal: the relief reads well at close range and photographs strongly for curated displays.


Collector crossover: ideal for Roman antiquities, mythology, bronze mounts/appliqués, and classical architecture themes. See less