A Marble Strigilated Sarcophagus , Roman Imperial, circa A.D. 250-270

carved in relief at each of the rounded ends with a lion devouring a horse, the strigilations centering a mandorla decorated with a barrel-like object.

European Private Collection

American Private Collection, acquired from the above in the 1920s

Sotheby's London, December 14, 1995, lot 145

Jutta Stroszeck, Löwen-Sarkophage: Sarkophage mit Löwenköpfen, schreitenden Löwen und Löwen-kampfgruppen (Antiken Sarkophagreliefs, 6.1), Berlin, 1998, no. 223

As shown. Surface is highly weathered. Front half is repaired from several fragments. Chips and abrasions overall. There is a later drainage hole and filling hole inside, probably for later use as a trough and/or a planter.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

A related example with a similar barrel in the mandorla is in the gardens of the Quirinale Palace in Rome (Stroszeck, op. cit., no. 320, pl. 55,1).