Prima Porta Flashcards
Why was it named Prima Porta?
It was found in 1863 in the Villa of Livia (Au 3rd wife) in Prima Porta
Who commissioned the Prima Porta?
(Mot likely) Tiberius, second emperor and stepson of Augustus, in AD15.
What was the inspiration for the Prima Porta?
A lost bronze statue from 20BC (prob melted for metal)
The Doryphoros from 5BC (Polykleitos)
How is Augustus depicted?
The Imperator - commander of the army
- Military clothes
- Baton but no weapons
- Right hand up in Adlocutio position to address troops
- Contrapposto
Face: Accurate to life but a young, fit version
Mimics heroic stance of Greek statues (doryphoros)
Breastplate Symbolism:
In the centre: A Parthian returning stolen war standards (significant diplomatic victory in 20BC which brought peace in European frontier
Around centre: Gods represent how Augustus has their support
- Sol, Caelus at the top
- Gaul, Hispania (personified) at sides. Ie. sun shining down on the regions of empire in Pax Romana
- Diana, Apollo below G+H showing how Au valued traditional religion, favoured by gods
- Tellus holds two babies and cornucopia at bottom. Fertility, healthy people, plenty
Connection to Gods
Barefoot (divine status)
Connected to doryphoros which was made in golden age of Athens
Dolphin by leg - victory over mark and cleopatra at Actium in 31BC, so Au was sole leader
Cupid - Son of Venus, JC also descended from Venus (claimed) so Au shares connection
Purpose of the statue:
Shows Au as bringer of Pax Romana and connects to past and military victories.
Mary Beard Quote
Augustus’ use of imagery in the Prima Porta sculpture was a masterstroke in political propaganda, effectively consolidating his authority and promoting the idea of the emperor as both a secular and divine figure.”
J. Paul Quote
“The Augustus of Prima Porta embodies the emperor’s role as both a military leader and a divine ruler, signaling a clear message about imperial power and the establishment of a new order in Rome.”
