Lovely Roman marble head of a woman, Julio-Claudian

A lovely Roman marble head of a woman, Julio-Claudian Period, c. early 1st Century BC, in the manner of the Empress Livia Drusilla (also known as Julia Augusta), her features well-defined with pursed lips and rolled curls at her forehead and framing her face. The hairstyle depicted on this bust was made popular in the time by Livia, and was oft copied throughout the empire, much as the hairstyles of emperors became popular in person and in art. The back of the head is cut and notched indicating that the back of the head was finished with a separate piece, a common practice for ancient Roman marbles. The head is attached to a contemporary marble base marked with the initials RD. H: 15 5/8 in (49.6 cm). As is common in ancient marbles, there is professional restoration to the nose and mouth/chin region, as well as to the styled and raised central portion of her hair. A lovely piece regardless, that while likely not Livia herself, may well be. As a fun bit of history, Livia was not only the wife of Augustus and mother of Tiberius, but also the grandmother of Claudius, great-grandmother of Caligula, and great-great grandmother of Nero. Ex Connecticut private collection.

Condition: The absence of a condition statement does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections , the effects of aging, or repair/restoration work. Interested bidders are strongly encouraged to request a condition report on any lots upon which they intend to bid, prior to placing a bid, and we will be happy to give you a full overview of the items' condition. All transactions are governed by Ancient Resource LLC's Conditions of Sale.