Ionic capital; Roman period, 2nd century A.D.

Ionic capital; Roman period, 2nd century A.D.
Carved stone.
Measurements: 24 x 31 x 32 cm.
Ionic capital carved from stone, with a distinctly architectural composition, featuring a molded upper abacus, spiral-shaped lateral volutes, and an equine decorated with plant motifs. The lower section features a truncated cone-shaped calyx, articulated by vertical fluting that accentuates its rhythm and verticality.
The piece reflects an interpretation of the classical tradition, in which the elegance of the Ionic order is expressed through the symmetry of the volutes, the articulation of the molded elements, and the contrast between the smooth surfaces and the ornamental relief. Its craftsmanship, characterized by bold modeling and schematic execution, gives special prominence to the volumes and the expressiveness of the carving.
Due to its formal characteristics, it stands as a testament to the Greco-Roman architectural repertoire and its continued presence in monumental ornamentation. The capital features a recognizable structure of the classical Ionic order, but with relatively schematic carving, compact volutes, and simplified ornamentation. These features can be linked to the Roman architectural tradition, which reinterpreted Greek models, although they do not, on their own, allow for the establishment of a definitive early chronology. There are Roman parallels from the 2nd–3rd centuries CE in the collections of the Princeton University Art Museum and Sir John Soane’s Museum.