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Pair 19th C. Multi-Specimen Marble & Porphyry Busts, Ceasar Domitian & Augustus

About the Item

An Incredible and Large Pair of Multi-Specimen Marble and Porphyry Busts of Ceasars Domitian and Augustus of Prima Porta. Each composed of multiple stone specimens and mounted on square black marble pedestals. The heads are carved from white marble, with detailed facial features, short wavy hair, and symmetrical contours. The eyes are smooth and slightly recessed, with carved eyebrows and lips. The torsos are constructed from red porphyry, forming the base of the cuirasses. The shoulder sections incorporate yellow sienna marble, white, black, and brown marbles, arranged to resemble segmented armor. Polished marble inlays define the decorative panels on the breastplates. Draped cloaks, rendered in richly veined brown and ochre marble, are affixed to the shoulders and feature carved folds. Circular brooches in translucent yellow stone secure the drapery. Each bust features additional carved elements, including tasseled shoulder straps made from light-colored onyx or alabaster. These straps are attached with marble loops and extend downward. The busts are mounted on stepped black marble bases with squared edges. Domitian (51–96 AD) was the last emperor of the Flavian dynasty, ruling from 81 to 96 AD. He strengthened the Roman economy, expanded the empire’s borders, and fortified its defenses, but his authoritarian rule and conflicts with the Senate led to his assassination. His reign marked a transition toward autocratic governance, and he was later condemned through damnatio memoriae. Augustus (63 BC–14 AD), originally known as Gaius Octavius, was the founder of the Roman Empire and its first emperor, ruling from 27 BC until his death in 14 AD. He implemented major administrative, military, and economic reforms, established the Pax Romana, and reshaped Rome’s political structure. The Prima Porta depiction, based on a marble statue discovered in 1863, presents him in an idealized form, emphasizing his role as a military leader and statesman. Italy, Circa: 1900.
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 35.5 in (90.17 cm)Width: 29 in (73.66 cm)Depth: 13 in (33.02 cm)
  • Sold As:
    Set of 2
  • Style:
    Grand Tour (In the Style Of)
  • Materials and Techniques:
    Marble,Porphyry,Hand-Carved,Polished
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    1900
  • Condition:
    Wear consistent with age and use. This pair is in excellent condition and ready to be placed. There are small nicks that are expected for their age.
  • Seller Location:
    New York, NY
  • Reference Number:
    1stDibs: LU919543670502

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