Statuette of a bull
Unknown Artist
Medium
Lead
Dimensions
Height: 1 7/16 in. (3.7 cm)
Classification
Miscellaneous-Lead
Culture
Greek, Laconian
Department
Greek and Roman Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Gift of A. J. B. Wace, 1924
Accession Number
24.195.117
Tags
Art Historical Context
This diminutive **Statuette of a Bull**, crafted from lead and standing just 1 7/16 inches (3.7 cm) tall, hails from ancient Laconian Greece—the rugged region of Sparta known for its warrior culture and austere artistry. Donated to the Metropolitan Museum of Art in 1924 by archaeologist A. J. B. Wace, this rare piece belongs to the museum's Greek and Roman Art, classified among miscellaneous lead objects. Its small scale and malleable medium suggest it was likely a votive offering personal amulet, or even a toy, common in ancient sanctuaries where devotees left such tokens to honor the gods. ...