Plaque, Wood, Carved, Portrait, Profile, Greco-Roman Man, Antique, late 19th Century

Man Crowned with Laurel Leaves
Continental: late 19th Century
Stained hardwood
16 inches high, 11 inches wide
$400

Profile portrait plaque of a Greek or Roman man — perhaps an emperor or high-ranking soldier — from antiquity, carved in high relief, with a dark brown stain. The bearded man is crowned with a laurel wreath tied with a ribbon at the back of his head, and has a toga draped around his neck. The portrait is set within an oval with the edge carved to create a frame. The laurel wreath was awarded to the winners of the ancient Greek Olympics and other competitions. In Rome they symbolized victory in battle and were presented to successful commanders.

Condition: Generally very good with light overall wear, shrinkage, and restorations.