Griffin Attachment from a Cauldron

Description A "protome" is a decorative element representing the head and neck of a person or animal. This griffin's head, which with several others decorated a large bronze cauldron, is characteristic of the Orientalizing period. Cauldrons on tripod stands with designs inspired by Near Eastern motifs were important dedications in sanctuaries. The griffin was a mythological creature with the head and wings of an eagle and the body of a lion, and was believed to guard the gold of northern barbarian tribes.

Provenance Robert E. Hecht, Jr. [dealer], 1999; Walters Art Museum, 1999, by purchase.

Credit Museum purchase with funds provided by the Ancient Art Acquisition Fund, 1999