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Marble portrait bust of Perikles, Athenian statesman (c490-429 BC), Roman, 2nd century BC
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Marble portrait bust of Perikles, Athenian statesman (c490-429 BC), Roman, 2nd century BC
Marble portrait bust of Perikles, Athenian statesman (c490-429 BC), Roman, 2nd century BC. Perikles (Pericles) led the democracy of Athens at the height of the citys power and influence. He gathered around him a circle of poets, architects and artists, whose works include a programme of renewal of the principal religious and civic buildings of Athens. The crowning glory was the Parthenon, erected on the Acropolis between 447 and 432 BC. Perikles was famous for the power of his oratory (public speaking) that enabled him to rule Athens almost without opposition. This is a Roman copy of an original portrait which was perhaps created in Perikles own day, or shortly after his death. However, it probably bears little physical resemblance to his actual appearance, showing an ideal type of the mature soldier citizen, wearing a helmet pushed back on his head. The portrait is shaped as a terminal bust for mounting on a square shaft of stone. It is said to come from the Roman emperor Hadrians Villa at Tivoli, near Rome. It is now in the British Museum
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Media ID 14844522
© Ann Ronan Picture Library / Heritage-Images
Athenian Athens Bust Caesar Traianus Hadrianus Augustus Civic Official Democracy Emperor Hadrian Hadrian Helmet Idealised Marble Orator Parthenon Pericles Perikles Publius Aelius Hadrianus Replica Ancient Greek Ann Ronan Pictures
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases a marble portrait bust of Perikles, the renowned Athenian statesman who led the city's democracy during its peak of power and influence. Dating back to the 2nd century BC, this Roman copy depicts an idealized version of Perikles as a mature soldier citizen, with his helmet pushed back on his head. Perikles was not only known for his political prowess but also for gathering a circle of talented poets, architects, and artists around him. Together, they embarked on an ambitious program to renovate Athens' principal religious and civic buildings. The crowning achievement of their efforts was the magnificent Parthenon, which still stands proudly on the Acropolis today. While this portrait may not bear a strong physical resemblance to Perikles himself, it serves as a testament to his enduring legacy. It is believed that this particular piece originated in Perikles' own time or shortly after his death. Discovered at Hadrian's Villa near Rome and now housed in the esteemed British Museum (not affiliated with any company), this remarkable artifact offers us a glimpse into ancient history and reminds us of the lasting impact individuals can have on society through their leadership and vision.
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