9. Roman Marble Upper-Arm from a Sculpture of Cupid or a Cherub

C. 1st Century B.C. - 1st Century A.D.

Fine white Italian marble from what must have been a beautifully rendered sculpture of either cupid, or putto (a cherub).

In classical art, "cherubs" are better known as putti (singular: putto) or Cupids. In Ancient Roman marble sculpture, these figures typically depicted Cupid, the Roman god of love. They were frequently sculpted as plump, winged infants and were used to decorate Roman sarcophagi, garden fountains, and wealthy household shrines.

Condition: Fragment as shown.

Dimensions: 13cm x 6.5cm approx.

Provenance: Ex. Private collection, UK.

£100.00 (Display stand included)

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Cupid & Putto

Ancient Roman marble pieces are some of the most collectable antiquities for sale. In Roman history, Cupid (or Amor) was the god of desire and affection. Adapted from the Greek god Eros, he evolved from a primeval cosmic force into a mischievous winged boy. As the son of Venus (goddess of love) and Mars (god of war), he embodied the volatile nature of passion.

In Roman history, putti (plural for putto) were winged, chubby infants used in art and architecture to represent spirits, guiding genii, or the Greco-Roman god of love, Cupid (or Amor). They symbolized earthly passions, fertility, and the playful boundary between human and divine realms.