Head of Augustus
27 B.C.–A.D. 14
Roman Period, Augustus
This
small head is thought to depict the Roman Emperor Augustus. It follows a
Roman prototype for his portrait that was developed in the earlier part
of his long reign, but continued in use. Paul Zanker has suggested it
might have been created late in Augustus' reign or even in that of
Tiberius. Egyptian influence may be present in the suggestion of loose
flesh beneath the prominent cheekbones.
The
original context of the head is unknown, but it was said to be from
Memphis, which is reasonable. A Memphite provenance would reflect the
importance of the traditional religious capital in Augustus's political
domination of the country. A cult of Augustus existed there, and the
High Priest of Ptah of Memphis, the most important official in the
country's traditional religious structure, was chosen as its chief
officiant, the "prophet of Caesar." This appointment was surely intended
to encourage the cooperation of the country.
Medium: Faience
Dimensions: H. 7.7 × W. 6 × D. 6.5 cm (3 1/16 × 2 3/8 × 2 9/16 in.)
Met Museum
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