2nd-3rd century AD. A bronze model bull on a socle base with plinth, advancing with tail looped, incised sunwheel to one hip. 47.5 grams, 40mm (1 1/2"). From a private Netherlands collection; previously in an old collection since before 1980. The bull was sacred in Rome, where the populace celebrated the taurobolium ceremony where a bull was killed as an offering to the gods to ensure the success of the people and the Roman state. [No Reserve]