Amphora with Horace’s Ode

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Scheda Archeologica

The elongated amphora with a pointed toe (pointer) is inspired by a type widely distributed across the Roman world between the 1st and 2nd centuries AD (specifically referencing standard Dressel or Gauloise transport amphora typologies). Associated with the pendant is a drop-shaped metal leaf engraved with the opening line of Book I, Ode 37 by Horace (“Nunc est bibendum…”).

This famous ode, composed following the death of Cleopatra in 30 BC, draws literary inspiration from two primary precedents: an ancient Greek symposiastic poem by Alcaeus celebrating the death of the tyrant Myrsilus, and Horace’s own Epode 9, written on the eve of the Battle of Actium.

Far from merely celebrating physical intoxication or the queen’s death, the ode expresses profound relief at the averted threat of further civil war. The mention of dance is a direct reference to the tripudium—the sacred three-beat rhythm—executed by the Salii. These Roman priests of Mars performed ritual propitiatory dances and processions carrying the twelve ancilia, the legendary sacred shields, one of which was believed to have fallen from heaven as a gift from Mars to King Numa Pompilio. Wine and uninhibited dance serve as symbolic acts to mark the restoration of peace and to offer solemn thanksgiving to the gods.

Key Historical & Scientific Context Added:

Archaeological Typology: Elongated amphorae with a pointed base (puntale) during the early Imperial period (1st–2nd c. AD) typically served as maritime transport containers for wine, oil, or garum (notably Dressel 2–4 or South-Gaulish forms), mirroring the exact wine theme of Horace’s ode.
Literary Context: The famous opening line (Nunc est bibendum, nunc pede libero pulsanda tellus) directly translates Alcaeus’s Greek fragment (“Nyn chre methysken”), grounding Horace’s Augustan propaganda in Archaic Greek lyric poetry.
The Ancilia: Roman tradition held that the original shield fell from the sky during Numa Pompilio’s reign as a talisman of Rome’s military destiny; eleven identical copies were forged to prevent its theft.

Materiali e Tecnica

🕯️ The Art of Hand-Sculpted Wax Modeling

Each creation begins with a master wax model sculpted entirely by hand, following a rare and patient artisan tradition. It all starts over the gentle flame of an alcohol spirit lamp: heating the tips of tiny blades, chisels, and files over the flame, the wax is carefully melted, carved, and micro-sculpted point by point. Every curve is shaped by the hands of the archaeologist-designer, who smooths the finest contours using only the warmth and subtle pressure of her fingertips.

🔥 Lost-Wax Casting & Hand Finishing

From the initial wax prototype, the piece comes to life through the ancient lost-wax casting technique. New wax models produced from the master mold are cast into metal, then individually finished, chased, and hand-polished. Precision sheet elements (such as the drop) are custom laser-cut and engraved with high accuracy.

💎 Solid Precious Metal: Pure Substance You Can Feel

Unlike modern mass-produced jewelry — often hollowed out, ultra-thin, or lightened to minimize metal weight —, we choose to cast our pieces completely solid. Anyone holding them for the first time is amazed by their substantial weight and rich feel, evoking the true luxury and nobility of classical goldsmithing.

✨ Precious Materials & Finishes

All pieces are crafted from fine Italian 925 Sterling Silver, completed with a high-grade Rhodium or Gold plating for lasting brilliance and durability.

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