Sold Antiques

PA-3110: BRONZE FIGURE OF A ROOSTER , Eastern Roman/ Byzantine. Circa 10th – 12th Century A.D.

(58 x 44 mm – 1 7/8” high x 1 11/16” long)

A very fine solid cast bronze statuette of a strutting Rooster. The bird stands alertly upright, with folded wings and the left leg forward. The feather pattern is well detailed in a stylized manner and the legs terminate in an integral base so the figure is free standing.

Excellent condition, with attractive green and brown patina, and some surface encrustation. Mounted on an old wooden base.

Provenance: ex collection of Arthur M. Sackler (1913-1987), entrepreneur and philanthropist.

In ancient Rome, the Rooster heralded the dawn and was a bird sacred to the Sun God (Sol) and the messenger god (Mercury). In early Christian art, he appears as a symbol of the Passion of Christ and is often shown to represent Saint Peter’s denial and repentance.