Lar (Primary Title)
Statuette of a Dancing Lar (Alternate Title)
Unknown (Artist)
“Burn incense to the gods of the family...and offer food so the robed Lares may feed from the dish set out for them as a mark of respect that is received with gratitude.” – Ovid, Fasti
The clothing and pose of this statuette identify him as a Lar familiaris, the protective spirit of all members of a household (including slaves). The Lar was the focal point of domestic ritual and received daily offering such as incense, wine, grain, and garlands. In his arms-now missing-he most likely held a cornucopia and libation bowl.
Adolph D. and Wilkins C. Williams Fund
“Ancient Art in American Private Collections,” The Fogg Art Museum of Harvard University (Cambridge, MA): 28 December 1954-15 February 1955.
Image released via Creative Commons CC-BY-NC
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