The Emperor as Philosopher, probably Marcus Aurelius (reigned AD 161-180)
c. AD 180–200
Maker Unknown
Greek and Roman Art
The Emperor as Philosopher, probably Marcus Aurelius (reigned AD 161-180), c. AD 180–200. Turkey, Bubon(?) (in Lycia), Roman, late 2nd Century. Bronze, hollow cast in several pieces and joined; overall: 193 cm (76 in.). The Cleveland Museum of Art, Leonard C. Hanna, Jr. Fund 1986.5 The extremely high quality and monumental scale of this bronze draped figure suggest that it is an imperial portrait. Unusually, however, the pose and dress resemble those of a Greek philosopher rather than a Roman statesman (wearing a chiton and himation rather than toga). For these reasons, even without a head to confirm the identity, scholars have suggested this likely represents Marcus Aurelius, the Roman emperor known for his philhellenism and Stoic writings. This sculpture was cast in 29 pieces, expertly joined together to create one figure (with at least one more piece for the head, now lost).
- Maker/Artist
- Maker Unknown
- Classification
- Sculpture
- Formatted Medium
- bronze, hollow cast in several pieces and joined
- Dimensions
- Overall: 193 cm (76 in.)
- Departments
- Greek and Roman Art
- Accession Number
- 1986.5
- Credit Line
- Leonard C. Hanna, Jr. Fund
- Exhibitions
- Year in Review for 1986, Museum of Fine Arts, Boston (1967-70)., <em>Ancient Art From Private Collections, </em>Indianapolis Museum of Art (1971-74)., Minneapolis Institute of Arts (1976-1980)., <em>Ancient Art, </em>Rutgers University (September 13-October 25, 1981).
- Rights Statement
- CC0
- Museum Location
- 103 Roman
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