The artifact, known as 'The Horse from Vicolo delle Palme,' is a bronze statue currently held at the Capitoline Museum. Discovered in the vicinity of Vicolo delle Palme, this artifact depicts a horse and exhibits a sophisticated level of craftsmanship attributable to the late 5th or early 4th century B.C. The intricate details in the incised tail, muscular legs, and broad chest demonstrate a high level of anatomical accuracy in the depiction of the horse.
Residual red paint indicates the potential use of color in the original artifact, possibly accentuating the significant details. The artifact, measuring approximately 19.5 cm in height, shows a slight deterioration in the area of the ears, but is remarkably well-maintained given its age of around 2,500 years.
The meticulously textured mane and pebbled neck of the horse, together with the geometric engravings on its body, suggest a meticulous focus by the artist on replicating the vigor of the horse. Despite the presence of a hollow in the body of the artifact, its intended purpose remains unclear.
An accompanying statue discovered nearby, portraying a horse rider, indicates a larger context to these pieces, with potential implications that they were designed as votive offerings, or as integral parts of a narrative masterpiece. This discovery has attracted interest from the art historical community.
This Bronze Horse from Vicolo delle Palme showcases an intersection of the italic and Hellenistic stylistic traditions. Its significance lies not only in the demonstrated fusion of cultures but also in its representation of the prominent role and symbolic importance of horses within ancient Roman society.
