11366 Bernard Montfaucon (1655–1741) – Roman Sacrificial Instruments and Poultry Cage – Engraving (18th Century)
"Instrumens des Sacrifices, Pateres, Cages Pullaires" illustrates ancient Roman ritual objects including two highly decorated libation bowls or paterae and a cage for sacred chickens used in divination. The circular paterae feature classical figurative scenes in relief, with one depicting a group of seated figures and the other a mythological scene with a standing youth. The lower section displays a rectangular cage with latticed doors containing two chickens, an apparatus used by Roman augurs to predict the outcome of battles based on the birds' feeding behavior. This copper engraving was published in the monumental series L'antiquite expliquee et representee en figures in Paris.
Bernard Montfaucon was a French Benedictine monk and pioneering scholar of the Maurist congregation who is considered one of the founders of modern archaeology. He dedicated his life to the study of primary sources and ancient monuments, aiming to provide a comprehensive visual history of the classical world. His most famous work, a multi-volume encyclopedic set, documented thousands of artifacts and remained a standard reference for historians and artists throughout the eighteenth century. Montfaucon's methodical approach to classifying material culture significantly advanced the field of paleography and the preservation of historical knowledge.
Artist or Maker: Bernard Montfaucon.
Dimensions: Approximately 42 cm x 27 cm.
Medium: Engraving.
Date: (18th Century).
Condition Report:
This work is in good condition overall. There may be a few minor imperfections or fox or mottled marks to be expected with age. Please review the images carefully for condition details, and feel free to contact us with any questions or for a comprehensive condition report.
| Estimate | 300 - 400 SEK |
| Buyers Premium (inc. VAT) | 24.4% |
| Hammer Fee (inc. VAT) | 6 SEK |
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