Gilt bronze head of Bacchus, Italian Renaissance cane knob, 16th century.

This small bronze depicting the head of Bacchus or Silenus was cast using the lost-wax method and mercury gilded. It was probably intended to adorn a parade staff or a prestigious object. Examination of the hollow base reveals hand-crafted threading. The gilding, although very thick, is very worn, indicating extensive handling, which supports the hypothesis of a cane; indeed, at the end of a staff, its weight would make it a defensive weapon. Furthermore, the threading system is too heavy to simply attach a small accessory to a piece of furniture or any other decorative object. The quality of the casting, its state of preservation, and its iconography make this a rare and precious piece.
Height 6 cm. Worn gilding, nose flattened by an impact, magnificent brown patina with green oxide traces.
Probably Italian work from the 16th century.