Classical Mythology Roman Bronze Sculpture Hercules

Antique Historic Classical Mythology Roman Bronze Plaque Mount Hercules (Heracles)
Ancient Roman era cast bronze relief | Classical mythological scene | Collectors’ antiquity
A superb ancient Roman bronze plaque / mount depicting Hercules (Heracles)—the legendary hero celebrated across the Roman world as a symbol of strength, endurance, and victory. The figure is shown in heroic nudity, with the composition framed by a classical Ionic column, giving the scene an unmistakably Roman “temple/portico” atmosphere.
Hercules is traditionally recognised in Greco-Roman art by his lion skin (trophy from his first labour) and club—his best-known attributes. On this piece, the relief’s surviving forms and draped massing are consistent with that canonical Hercules iconography, despite expected ancient wear.
This plaque is substantial in-hand (0.2 kg) and well-suited to a decorative appliqué / mount—the sort of bronze ornament Romans commonly fixed to furniture, boxes, or luxury domestic fittings.
Historical Significance
Hercules was one of the most enduring heroic figures in Roman culture and appears widely in Roman art because he embodied ideals Romans admired: virtus (courage/manly excellence), endurance under trial, and victory through effort. His image was not merely decorative—it carried meaning in domestic and public life, functioning as a symbol of strength and protective power.
Small bronze mounts like this also speak to elite Roman taste. Such bronzes were commonly used to embellish high-quality household and ceremonial objects—furniture, caskets, and fittings—bringing classical imagery into everyday spaces.
The inclusion of an architectural column reinforces the classical visual language, suggesting a monumental or sacred setting and reflecting refined Roman decorative taste.
Measurements & Weight
Length: 6.8 cm
Width: 5.8 cm
Depth: 1.1 cm
Weight: 0.2 kg (200 g)
Provenance
From an old international collection. Acquired from a notable dealer in the southern Shires and curated by Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD.
Why You’ll Love It
Iconic subject: Hercules is one of the most instantly collectible figures of classical antiquity.
Meaningful symbolism: strength, protection, resilience, and triumph—ideal as a cabinet piece or study object.
Architectural setting: the Ionic column elevates it from a simple “figure plaque” to a composed classical scene.
Presence and weight: 200 grams of bronze—this presents as a serious object rather than a lightweight decorative copy.
Display appeal: the relief reads well at close range; excellent for photography and curated displays.
Collector crossover: strong fit for Roman antiquities, mythology, bronze mounts/appliqués, and classical architecture themes.
Condition Report
Ancient item with expected age-related characteristics: surface wear, patina variation, pitting/encrustation, and softened fine detail consistent with age and long history. Please use photos as part of the description.
Shipping
Carefully packed, tracked dispatch, and protected for safe delivery.