Art Funded by you

Cameo bust of Octavian

Unknown artist, 30–27 BC

The cameo is carved with great skill on a miniature scale from a sliver of matt, white chalcedony only 18 mm thick. The portrait represents a youngish man in three-quarter left profile. He is dressed in a tunic, the folds delicately carved, and a toga pulled up to veil the back of his head. In front of the veil is a laurel wreath, worn over locks of hair falling in a wavy fringe. The face is broad, with jutting chin and prominent cheekbones. The brows are knitted and the lips slightly pursed. The gaze is intense, and the overall impression of emotion is increased by the movement of the head. For many years this portrait has been identified as a representation of Augustus, and indeed the hairstyle and facial features strongly resemble those of other portraits of that emperor. Yet its expressive style is derived from the images of the Hellenistic Greek kings who ruled the eastern Mediterranean lands once conquered by Alexander the Great of Macedon.

More information

Title of artwork, date

Cameo bust of Octavian, 30–27 BC

Date supported

1996

Medium and material

Agate

Dimensions

3 x 3 cm

Grant

10000

Total cost

20000

Content note: This object record is part of our archive and has not been updated since it was first published. It may contain inaccurate information or outdated language. Please get in touch if you think this record should be amended.

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