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Augustan Age
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Augustan Age

sculpture
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Quick Summary

The Augustan Age in Roman sculpture, spanning roughly from 43 BCE to 18 CE, is characterized by a "naturalistic classicism". Sculptures from this period, particularly portraits of Emperor Augustus, blend individual likeness with idealized features, presenting him consistently as youthful and dignified.12

A prime example is the Ara Pacis Augustae (Altar of Peace), a monument adorned with reliefs that harmoniously combine historical events, mythology, and allegorical figures. These sculptures showcase contemporary life, family scenes, and symbolic representations of Rome's prosperity and peace under Augustus's rule. While Greek artists often executed these works, they adapted their style to convey Roman ideals and achievements, marking a significant period of artistic patronage and inspiration in Rome.13

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6 Britannica Sources
  1. Western sculpture - Augustan Age
  2. Augustan Age
  3. Augustus - Personality and achievement of Augustus
  4. Western sculpture - Antonine and Severan periods
  5. Western sculpture - High Classical period (c. 450–400 bce )
  6. Western sculpture - Early Classical (c. 500–450 bce )

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