Biga
Maker
Fonderia Chiurazzi
(Italian, founded 1870)
Dateearly 20th century
MediumBronze
Dimensions55 1/2 x 113 x 55 1/2 in. (141 x 287 x 141 cm)
ClassificationsSculpture
Credit LineBequest of John Ringling, 1936
Object numberSN5136
A <i>biga</i> is a two-horsed chariot used throughout the ancient Roman world for transportation, sporting events, and ceremonial processions. The carriages of these chariots were often fashioned as votive offerings, and this example was likely made in honor of the Roman goddess of agriculture, Ceres. The exterior features ornamental grain spikes, poppies, and acanthus leaves, and the interior is decorated with an <i>agyieus</i>, the tapered column associated with god Apollo Agyieus, protector of roads. The marble carriage was completed as a chariot in the 18th century with the addition of the wheels, axis, and two horses.
On View
On viewLocation
- Museum of Art, Courtyard
