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Bronze torch-holder

late 5th century BCE
On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 170
Numerous examples of such objects have been found in tombs of Etruscan warriors, and scholars have debated their function. Most thought that they were hooks for retrieving meat from cooking vessels. But the engraved mirror, 96.18.15, displayed in the mirror case shows a figure using the object as a torch-holder. The utensils may have been supplied to soldiers for use on night missions and later became part of their funerary equipment.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Bronze torch-holder
  • Period: Classical
  • Date: late 5th century BCE
  • Culture: Etruscan
  • Medium: Bronze
  • Dimensions: Other: 10 13/16 in. (27.5 cm)
  • Classification: Bronzes
  • Credit Line: Purchase, 1896
  • Object Number: 96.9.375
  • Curatorial Department: Greek and Roman Art

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