John J. Gredler Works of Art

19th Century Italian Grand Tour Bronze Bust of the Roman God Jupiter

19th century Italian bronze bust of Jupiter on integral socle base, sits on a polished marble plinth. Nice chocolate patina. Inscribed 'Giove' on the rear.   Circa 1890.

Jupiter, also called Jove, Giove, the chief ancient Roman and Italian god. Like Zeus, the Greek god, Jupiter was a sky god. One of his most ancient epithets is Lucetius (“Light-Bringer”).

Throughout Italy he was worshiped on the summits of hills. At Rome itself on the Capitoline Hill was his oldest temple; Jupiter gained a new force and meaning at the close of the early Roman monarchy with the building of the famous temple on the Capitol, of which the foundations are still to be seen.

7.5" h  x  3" w  x  2.5" d        5.5" h without the base

Wear consistent with age and use. Marble base has various chips and minor loses - see photos.