Etruscan Bronze Heraklese or Hercules

 Circa 4th to 3rd Century BC. The standing hero depicted nude with stylized muscular torso, nice facial features and incised short hair. One arm to hip as he stands in contrapasto, a lion skin draped over the extended left arm. Deep olive green patina a patch of degradation to the surface. Size 7 inches (10.8cm) H. + custom mount. Ex Collection of Allen L. Owen, Connecticut; Sold Park Bernet Galleries, NY sale no 3031, April 24th 1970, lot 170 as Roman; illustrated in catalog; and with lot sticker at the bottom of wood block base.Heraklese or Hercules, a Greek mythological hero, son of Zeus, noted for his strength and courage and for his many legendary exploits, was no doubt an inspiration to the athleticism needed for the competition of the Olympic games. He was a popular cult hero in Eturia where many votive statuettes like this were found.