ITEM: Capital with egg and dart pattern
MATERIAL: Marble
CULTURE: Roman
PERIOD: 3rd - 5th Century A.D
DIMENSIONS: 115 mm x 187 mm diameter
CONDITION: Good condition, repaired
PROVENANCE: Ex English private collection, acquired late 20th Century

Comes with Certificate of Authenticity and Export Licence. If you are from outside the European Union, we will have to apply for the export licence again for your country, this takes 4 to 6 weeks and has a cost of 5% of the amount of the sale, this amount will be added to the final invoice.

The Roman capital is a distinctive architectural element that crowns the top of a column or pilaster in Classical and Neoclassical architecture. Characterized by its ornate design and symbolic significance, the Roman capital underwent several stylistic variations throughout history, each reflecting the prevailing artistic and cultural trends of its time. One of the most iconic decorative motifs found on Roman capitals is the egg-and-dart pattern, which consists of alternating ovoid shapes (eggs) and pointed elements (darts) arranged in a continuous band around the capital's circumference.

The egg-and-dart pattern holds both aesthetic and symbolic significance in Roman architecture. Its origins can be traced back to ancient Greek architectural ornamentation, where it was known as the "egg-and-tongue" motif. In Roman architecture, this motif was widely used as a decorative embellishment on various architectural elements, including columns, friezes, and cornices. The repetition of the egg-and-dart motif creates a sense of rhythm and visual interest, enriching the overall design of the capital and adding to its grandeur.

Symbolically, the egg-and-dart pattern is often interpreted as representing fertility, rebirth, and the cycle of life. The egg symbolizes birth and new beginnings, while the dart or tongue represents growth and vitality. In addition to its symbolic associations, the egg-and-dart motif also served a practical purpose in Roman architecture, helping to visually transition between different architectural elements and providing a sense of cohesion and unity to the overall design.

Good condition, repaired

11.5 x 18.7 x 18.7 cm

5 kg