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Article: SARCOPHAGUS.(a look at classical Roman art)(Brief Article)
- Article from:
- School Arts
- Article date:
- April 1, 2001
- Author:
CopyrightCOPYRIGHT 2001 Davis Publications, Inc. This material is published under license from the publisher through the Gale Group, Farmington Hills, Michigan. All inquiries regarding rights should be directed to the Gale Group. (Hide copyright information)
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Most Roman sculptures fall into one of two categories: freestanding (three-dimensional) or relief sculpture. Both types were often used to commemorate the sitter, whether of the imperial, aristocratic, or freedman (liberated slave) class. Sculptures were also commissioned for both public and private use. This sarcophagus, or stone coffin, is not only exquisitely decorated with high relief sculpture, but is also very well preserved; even much of the lid is intact. Throughout antiquity, it was not uncommon for plundering robbers to destroy sarcophagi lids.
Most likely the private commission of a wealthy individual, this sarcophagus is covered with vibrant figures of ...