Cupid With Dolphins Antefix
Handcrafted Replica Roman Antefix – "Cupid Riding Dolphins"
Details
This curious and charming antefix is said to depict Cupid riding dolphins—although this strange little figure doesn't quite resemble the Roman God of passion and desire that we might expect! While his appearance may be unusual, there’s no denying his unique charm and mischievous expression.
On either side of the mystical figure, palm fronds stretch upwards, while a scroll motif sits beneath him, adding to the intricate design of this piece.
The original antefix is now housed in the Amgueddfa Cymru - National Museum Wales collection, and this museum-quality replica faithfully captures its remarkable details and historical significance.
What is an Antefix?
In ancient Rome, antefixes were decorative terracotta plaques placed along the edges of roofs to conceal the ends of curved tiles. But these architectural elements weren’t just practical—they were also symbols of protection and power.
Often adorned with deities, mythological figures, or military insignia, antefixes served as guardian emblems, warning evil forces to stay away while showcasing the building owner’s status and devotion.
While this particular antefix was originally mounted with a fixing lug for roof installation, we have modified this replica for modern display, adding a hole for easy wall-mounting. If you’d like a version with the original-style fixing lug, please contact us for a custom quote.
Materials
- Terracotta
Dimensions
- Height: Approx. 210 mm
- Length: Approx. 210 mm
- Depth: Approx. 35 mm
Production
Each piece is handcrafted in Northumberland by Potted History, ensuring an authentic and historically accurate reproduction.
- Handmade using traditional techniques
- Fired to temperatures between 800°C - 1000°C to emulate ancient Roman pottery methods
- Each piece is unique, with variations in surface colour and texture, just like the original antefixes from nearly two thousand years ago
Ordering Information
- 'Add to Basket' Items: Ready to ship immediately.
- 'Pre-order' Items: Handmade to order within 90 days (longer for international orders). If your order includes both 'Add to Basket' and 'Pre-order' items, they will be shipped together once all items are ready.
Shipping
- Standard shipping: Sent via second-class postal service.
- Faster delivery: If you require first-class shipping, please contact us for a custom quote.
Own a piece of ancient craftsmanship – order today!
SHIPPING
'Add To Cart' items are ready to send straight away. Please be aware that if bought alongside 'Pre-order' items, your order will be sent when all items are ready.
'Pre-order' items are made to order, and we will dispatch them as soon as we have handcrafted them for you; this usually takes 90 days, but international orders can take a little longer.
We ship our fabulous replicas worldwide.
Shipping costs are worked out during checkout. They are based on where you are in the world and how heavy your parcel is, which can be very variable.
All items are sent using a second-class postal service. If you wish to have an item sent first class, please contact us for a quote. Many Thanks
RETURNS
If you aren't completely satisfied with your Potted History piece, please get in touch to organise a return. Email us at
clare@rothburycreates.co.uk
Then you can send it back at your own cost in an unused condition within 30 days, and we'll refund you for the cost of the item or items returned. If you include your order number with the returned package, that will speed things up. Please leave any original packaging intact.
Our returns address is:
Potted History, Gregory Court, Rothbury, Northumberland, NE65 7SW
PRODUCT VARIATION
Please be aware that due to items being handmade and finished, colour variations will occur during the making process, and each replica will have some differences. Also, know that the item photographed may not be the one that you receive, and colours can appear differently on different screens. Please ensure you look at all the images to get a fully formed idea of the item you are ordering as we try to capture the variations within the images we share. If you prefer a specific colour variation, please contact us before ordering.
