Lot 332: A LARGE FRAGMENTAL BRONZE TORSO FIGURE OF HERCULES

A hollow-cast bronze sculpture depicting the muscular torso of the mythological hero Herakles. The figure is identified by the attribute of a Nemean lion’s paw resting upon the right shoulder. The torso is rendered with pronounced anatomical detail, showing well-defined pectoral and abdominal muscles. The head features a full, textured beard composed of tight curls and similarly styled hair. The sculpture is a fragment, showing significant losses to the limbs and torso. The interior is hollow, visible through the missing sections of the left side and back. The surface is characterised by a variegated green and brown patina with extensive areas of mineral encrustation, pitting, and verdigris.

Provenance: West London Private Collection since 1970 

H: 35cm