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Rein guide for a chariot with a scene of the battle of the gods and giants
Roman
Imperial Period
about A.D. 200
Medium/Technique
Bronze
Dimensions
Height: 21.7 cm (8 9/16 in.)
Credit Line
Bartlett Collection—Museum purchase with funds from the Francis Bartlett Donation of 1900
Accession Number03.983
NOT ON VIEW
CollectionsAncient Greece and Rome
ClassificationsTools and equipment – Animal-related
Catalogue Raisonné
Greek, Etruscan, & Roman Bronzes (MFA), no. 671; Sculpture in Stone and Bronze (MFA), p. 127 (additional published references).
DescriptionA rein guide for a chariot has a scene of the battle of the gods and the giants. An enriched plinth and rocky mountain support a gate tower in which stand a goddess (Selene or Diana Lucifera, with crescent and veil over her head) and a male figure (Helios or Sol), repelling the attacks of snake-legged giants. One of these is below the tower in front, and the other is on the side-handle formed by a griffin's head. Missing: the second handle, giant on it; most of the god or hero on the right, head of divinity (?) on the left; and arms of the giant at the left. Dark brown to blackish patina, covering some corrosion.
ProvenanceBy date unknown: with Edwrd Perry Warren (bought in London and said to have been in the collection of Sir J. C. Robinson); March 1903: purchased by MFA from Edward Perry Warren