CNG 85, Lot: 1650. Estimate $500. Sold for $310. This amount does not include the buyer’s fee.

Bronze bust. Roman, 4th-5th centuries AD. In the round bearded, facing bust, undraped, bald on the back and top of head. Height: 2.7cm. Green patina. Nose a bit worn, otherwise in very good condition.

The bald spot makes one wonder who this figure could be. Perhaps a crude portrait of a living individual? Or perhaps St. Peter? The latter is tempting, but the lack of drapery and the fact that the iconographic tradition of a balding St. Peter does not truly become standard until the medieval period cast doubt.