Roman Bronze Patera (Libation Bowl)

The low hemispherical, well-cast bronze bowl is finely decorated inside with a series of incised horizontal grooves surrounding a series of finely contoured concentric circles to the base. The cylindrical fluted handle terminates in a finely detailed ram's head with handsome ribbed coiled horns projecting from a ribbed and beaded collar. The fixing plate to between the vessel and the handle is of a serpentine or clawed outline, suggestive almost of Celtic decorative motifs. The surface is ornamented with tendrils and a lotus bud. The ring foot is marked with concentric circles in relief around a central button. From Pompeii.