Miniature column capital, Roman period, 2nd-4th century A.D.

Solid cast, with Ionic scrolling volutes emerging from outsplayed acanthus leaves, supporting an abacus decorated with a central bud, a long iron tang on the underside
4.9 cm high, 4.5 cm deep, 7.8 cm high incl. tang

Note
A Roman bronze column sold at Bonhams in 14 July 2004, lot 20 shows a capital of similar scale to the present piece. The exact functions of these model columns is unknown, though they may have served as furniture attachments.