Roman Lead Plaque of Paris

Roman Lead Plaque of Paris, ca. 1st Century AD. The lead plaque seen here shows a seated and partially draped god (Paris?) holding an apple-and this image is very analogous to the seated and partially draped figure identified as Augustus seen on the Portland Vase. It's possible the figure seen here is Augustus seen as Paris, or vice-versa, and an educated Roman could possibly make this distinction. The artistic style of this figure is primarily known on Roman art from the 1st century BC to the 4th century AD.

The background of this seated figure shows what appears to be the Temple of Vesta with the rounded roof and square windows below - the "Arch of Titus" - and the tower which is the Meta Sudans, and this served as a turning post for Roman triumphs entering the Forum. The order of the monuments seen on this plaque correspond exactly on a map of the early Imperial Forum, and point to a location of the seated figure at the Rostum at the front of the Senate Building. This location is at, or near where the "Arch of Septimius Severus" now stands.

The fore shortening of the fountain at the front of the seated figure, along with the table with fruit seen behind, is a Roman convention of art often seen on Roman coinage. In addition, the fountain is decorated with known Roman decorative geometric type elements that were common in the 1st century AD.

This piece may have served as a furniture inlay, and is of an image most Roman's would be familiar with. An extremely rare Roman Imperial Period work of art. This piece is from the notable M. Waltz collection, Germany, circa 1960's. Mounted. L. 2 1/2" H. 1 7/8" (6.4 cm x 4.8 cm)..