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Lot Description

A Roman Marble Portrait Head of a Patrician

Circa 1st Century B.C.

Height 11 inches (28 cm).

Provenance:
T.S. Collection, United Kingdom, prior to 1977.

Published:
C. Milner, Traders of the Lost Arts, Financial Times, How To Spend It, 24 April 2015, pp. 10-11.

Note:
Portraiture during the Late Roman Republic is renowned for its verism. The facial features on this portrait head are exaggerated to highlight his wrinkles, sunken skin, furrowed brow, and even a bulging frontal vein. Age was synonymous with wealth and power in ancient Rome. Wrinkles exuded gravitas (seriousness of mind) and virtus (virtue), which would evidently indicate a fruitful public career and triumphs. Public officials often commissioned veristic portrait busts to legitimize their authority and further associate themselves with their prestigious ancestors.

Condition Report

Intact as preserved. Moderate incrustation with root marks to the back of the head, tips of ears, and proper left cheek. Overall slightly beige patination. Elements of the face such as eyes, nose, and mouth are well preserved. Cracking on the back of the head with possible modern restoration. The bottom neck uneven and center drilled for a modern base. Height with base 18 inches. Overall fine stable condition.

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