Italy or France
Probably late 19th century.
Late in the 1st century B.C., the Roman historian Livy retold "the legend of how the Sabine women were snatched from their families at a religious festival to populate Rome, and how their hearts and minds were won over by violence followed by sweet words and childbearing" (stoa.org). This dramatic little piece represents that story. Many artists and sculptors have interpreted the tale, and this dramatic little piece is most similar to the painting, "The Rape of the Sabine Women" by Peter Paul Rubens (1557-1640). To clarify: in the context of the Latin language of the Roman Empire, the word "raptio" (rape) translates as "abduction." The double-tailed banner in the 11 o'clock position bears the initialism "SPQR" -- "Senatus Populusque Romanus" -- referring to the government of the ancient Roman Republic. The piece is mounted on a 10" x 10" wooden plaque covered in worn burgundy velvet; it is easily removed so that the wood can be re-covered.

Antique Coins
Antique Medals