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Bronze handle with nereids supporting a youth

4th century BCE
On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 170
Two hybrid sea creatures, part human and part snake, support a sleeping youth who forms one of the handles of a large bronze vessel. All the symbolism is connected with death, an appropriate allusion on a vessel that may have been used for cremated remains.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Bronze handle with nereids supporting a youth
  • Period: Late Classical
  • Date: 4th century BCE
  • Culture: Etruscan
  • Medium: Bronze
  • Dimensions: H.: 6 7/8 in. (17.5 cm)
  • Classification: Bronzes
  • Credit Line: Fletcher Fund, 1925
  • Object Number: 25.78.53
  • Curatorial Department: Greek and Roman Art

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