Fragment of a Human Upper Extremity

 

The fragment probably represents what's left of an extended upper extremity slightly bent at the elbow. Remains of some support of a square cross section are seen under the olecranon process. The arm seems to have belonged to a colossal statue, likely a representation of a god (Zeus?) or an emperor.   

The piece is covered by an irregular, yellowish to brownish patina. 

Provenance: The Great Mosque of Damascus, most probably from unpublished excavations south of the temenos wall and near its junction with Sūq aṣ-Ṣāġā. Found reused in later masonry, it was brought to the Museum on Dec 13, 1963.  

Substance: white marble. 

Length: 42 cm. . 

Era: second century CE. 

Text: adapted from Weber (p.25).

Collection: National Museum of Damascus. 

Thomas M. Weber. Sculptures from Roman Syria in the Syrian National Museum of Damascus. Vol I, from Cities and Villages in Central and Southern Syria. Wernersche Verlagsgesellschaft. Worms. 2006.