HELLENISTIC PERIOD, CIRCA 2ND-1ST CENTURY B.C.

Of cylindrical form with mouldings above and below, decorated with four frontally facing bucrania with taeniae hanging down, linked by large foliate swags, with hanging grape clusters. These altars were not only used as dedications in the sanctuaries of the gods, but also in private houses for domestic cults and for deceased family members. See L. Budde and R. Nichols, A Catalogue of the Greek and Roman Sculpture, The Fitzwilliam Museum, Cambridge, 1964, pp. 41-42, nos. 71-72, for two altars from Delos of similar type.