Head Of Bacchus In Gilded Bronze, Italian Renaissance Cane Knob, 16th Century.

This small bronze representing the head of Bacchus or Silenus was cast using the lost wax method and gilded with mercury. It was probably intended to adorn a parade staff or a prestigious object. Examination of the hollow base shows us a handcrafted thread. The gilding, although very thick, is very worn, indicating extensive handling, which supports the hypothesis of the cane; indeed, at the end of a staff, its weight would make it a defensive weapon, moreover the threading system is too important to simply fix a small accessory, on a piece of furniture or any other decorative object. The quality of the cast, its state of preservation and its iconography make it a rare and precious piece. Height 6cm. Worn gilding, nose flattened by a shock, magnificent brown patina with green traces of oxide. Probably Italian work from the 16th century.