The Prima Porta Flashcards
when was it made?
20 BCE
what is the marble a copy of?
bronze statue commissioned by senate to commemorate the return of the parthian standards
what does the dolphin link to?
The actium war - the sea battle, military success
what does cupid at his feet link to?
son of venus who augustus’ family claims lineage from
what is his stance?
Adlocutio - that of a leader addressing a crowd or general addressing troups
why is he portrayed in his 20’s (he wouldve been 40’s)?
emphasis on his youth and strength to make him visually impressive and highlight his physical prowess
what is he dressed in?
military garb - ready for battle and a generals cloak, rich attire
what is it speculated he was once holding?
a spear (imperator), a consuls staff (republican), a standard (peace)
why is he shown barefoot?
apotheosis (becoming a god after death) - gods would be barefoot in their statues
what can we infer from his being barefoot?
that this marble copy was made after his death
what is shown on the shoulders of the chestplate?
mythical beasts associated with egypt
what is shown right below the neckline of the chestplate?
the heavens pulling the sky
what is shown on either side of the heavens?
Left: sun god sol in his charriot
Right: moon goddess luna and Dawn sprinkling morning dew over the world
what is below the gods/goddesses of sun and moon?
personification of Romes allied and conquered provinces
what is at the bottom left of the chestplate?
apollo riding a griphin (he helped augustus at the power struggle)
