Lion's Head First half of the 5th century BC Etruria Bronze; h 26 cm Etruscan bronzes in the Hermitage reveal the great skill of ancient bronzesmiths. Engraved rosettes and stars above the beast's ears and eyes in this piece may indicate a link with the cult of the dead and the entire sculpture might thus have decorated the entrance to a necropolis. Poised ready to spring, the lion is full of inner tension. This sculpture, a remarkable example of monumental Etruscan bronzes, combines both realistic traditions and stylised elements.