Miniature Greek Archaic Bronze Bull (Published) – Greece, Ca. 7th Century Bce

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Description

A charming and highly evocative Greek Archaic bronze bull, created during the early centuries of classical Mediterranean bronze casting. Likely … Read more A charming and highly evocative Greek Archaic bronze bull, created during the early centuries of classical Mediterranean bronze casting. Likely produced as a votive offering, this stylized animal figure would have been placed at a temple or altar as an act of devotion and prayer.
The bull is rendered with striking simplicity and strength—standing proudly on four long, slender legs, with a compact yet powerful body. Incised lines accent the musculature at the neck, while the upward-held head and bold curving hornsgive the figure a commanding presence. Animal forms such as this were especially favored in the Geometric and early Archaic traditions, symbolizing fertility, protection, and sacrifice.
Mounted on a modern display base.
Origin: Greece
Period: Archaic Period, ca. 7th century BCE
Dimensions: 3"H x 2.5"W x 1.25"D
* Published: Antiquities from the Collection of Christos G. Bastis by Bernard V. Bothmer, p. 172, 1999
* Provenance: Purchased at Sotheby’s, New York, December 1999 See less