Sculpture of the god Mars. Roman, I-II century.

Sculpture of the god Mars. Roman, I-II century.
Bronze.
Provenance: Private collection, France, late 19th-early 20th century, based on the surface of the bronze and the base.
Good general state of preservation, without restorations.
The piece retains its structural integrity, although it has lost the right arm. During the nineteenth century or early twentieth century an internal casting of quadrangular section was made with the intention of inserting an added element to complete the figure, an intervention that is visible today and that is part of its material history.
Measurements: 16.5 cm high.

Important bronze sculpture representing Mars, Roman god of war, conceived within the classical tradition that exalts the heroic masculine ideal. The figure appears naked, in a slight forward attitude, with the weight distributed in a naturalistic way and a subtle twisting of the body that brings dynamism and balance to the composition.

The anatomical modeling reveals a high quality execution, with special attention to the musculature, treated with softness and verisimilitude, in line with the canons inherited from Greek sculpture. The face, with idealized features and restrained expression, is framed in an elaborate hairstyle that reinforces its divine character. The posture of the preserved arm and the original disposition of the lost arm suggest that the figure would carry attributes of Mars, such as a spear or shield.

The surface has a rich dark patina with warm nuances and tonal variations, the result of its age, which accentuates the volumes and underlines the quality of the casting. This type of sculptures, of small format but great refinement, were destined both for prestigious domestic contexts and for spaces of private worship.

Due to its formal quality, general condition and provenance, this is a particularly attractive example in the field of ancient Roman bronze.