A ROMAN MARBLE INSCRIBED GRIFFIN TRAPEZOPHORUS

This striking table leg takes the form of a griffin with raised wings defined by overlapping, curving feathers. The mythical monster has a ferocious expression characterized by deep-set eyes and an open beak. An unusual feature for a trapezophorus is the Greek inscribed across its chest, reading: “Epictetus, official of public revenue, for (practical) use." Likely this would have originally been one of a pair, employed as a furniture support. For a similar example from Ostia, see no. 76 in M. De Nuccio and L. Ungaro, eds., I marmi colorati della Roma imperiale.