Small Ludovisi Sarcophagus

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by Henk Bekker

Small Ludovisi Sarcophagus

The Small Ludovisi Sarcophagus has only a single band of battle but the Romans here fight three enemies. Winged victories standing on nude prisoners and palm trees at the corners symbolize victory. Although using Hellenistic sculptural models, the portrayal is a typical Roman view of triumphal power. The style of the relief is similar to the Column of Marcus Aurelius and thus this sarcophagus probably also dates from 175-180 AD. The smaller sarcophagus is on display in the room adjacent to the Ludovisi Gaul.

Visit the Palazzo Altemps in central Rome to see a small but fantastic collection of top sculptures from antiquity displayed in a historic palace of the National Roman Museum.