Handle with equine protomes. Rome, 1st century A.D.

Bronze handle decorated with equine protomes. Rome, 1st century A.D.
Bronze with a green patina.
Provenance:
Spanish private archaeological collection.
Family bequest from Ramon Martí Alsina and Ricard Martí Aguiló. An archaeological collection assembled beginning in the 1950s by successive generations of the family through purchases at European galleries and auction houses.
Measurements: 10 x 3 cm.
Weight: 265 g.

A Roman-era bronze handle with a curved profile and semicircular cross-section, topped by zoomorphic elements identified as horse heads. It features incised details that define the anatomical features and elements of the harness, as well as bands of geometric motifs arranged along the body of the handle. The surface retains an oxidation patina in shades of green and brown.

The incorporation of zoomorphic motifs into functional elements is a common feature in Roman metalwork, particularly in the fittings and handles of bronze vessels. In this example, the equine decoration combines figurative representation with ornamental surface treatment, reflecting the attention paid to everyday objects in Roman bronze production.