Statuette of a Lar

1st century A.D.

Medium

Bronze

Dimensions

12.7 × 5 cm

Status

In Museum Collection

Collect24 Art ID

C24-240067

A male figure calmly steps forward with outstretched arms. He carries attributes that identify him as a Lar, a protective deity who watched over the Roman household. In his right hand, the youth carries a patera (offering bowl). A cornucopia (now missing), a symbol of prosperity and abundance, once rested on his left arm. He wears a short belted tunic, a cloak draped over one shoulder and caught in his belt, and open-toed boots. The ribbons of a wreath tied around his head fall forward over his shoulders. Originally, the eyes of the statuette were inlaid with a contrasting material.The Lares played an important role in Roman domestic life. Many Roman homes contained a small shrine, or lararium, dedicated to the Lares. Originally gods of cultivated fields and worshiped at crossroads, over time, these spirits were worshiped in each household as the center of the family cult. A prayer was made to the Lares every morning and offerings were left on special occasions. In Roman religion, these deities took the form of young men.