Marble Basin, Mortar Carved With A Centauromachy Décor – Sculpture – After The Antiqu

Marble Basin (Mortar, Vessel) Carved with a Centauromachy
16th Century or Earlier

White marble with grey veining

Height: 18 cm – Diameter: 30 cm

Sculpture in white marble finely veined with grey, of circular form, with a deep bowl, thick rim, and a lateral pouring spout. The exterior of the vessel is adorned with a continuous high-relief decoration depicting a centauromachy, the battle between the Lapiths and the Centaurs. The scene shows several centaurs engaged in combat with warriors, punctuated by two sculpted heads in low relief, with curly hair and youthful features.

The smooth interior bears ancient wear consistent with genuine use. The composition, the tension of the bodies, the treatment of the faces and hair, as well as the overall quality of execution, bring this piece close to Roman production of the late 2nd to early 3rd century A.D.

The decoration follows the formal conventions of centauromachy sarcophagi produced in Rome at the same period, characterized by the dramatization of scenes and the deep modelling of figures. The theme of the centauromachy, recurrent in Roman funerary and decorative art, is here employed in a civil context, reflecting the circulation of mythological motifs in the domestic art of the imperial elite.

Former Austrian private collection
Acquired on the art market at public auction

Upper rim showing ancient chips.
Reliefs in good condition with surface wear consistent with age and use.
Even, light patina.
No visible restorations.

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