Solid Cast Lead Dolphin from Caesarea Maritima

[v-drome]

Hi, all.  Here is a solid cast lead dolphin.  It seems to be a stand-alone piece as I don't see any attachment points or evidence of a rider such as Eros.  Any ideas or corrections with regard to use, manufacture, or date would be welcome.  Thanks, V-drome

BCC L26
Cast Lead Dolphin
Uncertain Date
1st-5th Century CE?
Solid cast lead dolphin in classical Roman style with
low profile representations of lips, eyes?, dorsal and
pectoral fins, and bifurcated tail.  There are no obvious
seam lines, but there is a small crack in the curve of the
tail, so perhaps it was cast in a one-piece open mold and
then manipulated to produce the finished shape.  Surface
find from the beach south of Caesarea Maritima, 1977.
3.65 x 1.5 x 0.6cm. 10.50gm.
(click for larger pic)

[SC]

Neat.  I have not seen one before.  I think you are right that it is a stand alone item.

The true purpose of many of these lead items remains somewhat mysterious.

SC