Head of Constantine I
Click to enlarge image.
Rome, ca. 325
Marble
H. 37 1/2 in. (95.3 cm)
The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, N.Y. (26.229)
This colossal head of Constantine I was made to be inserted into a bust or, more likely, a seated, enthroned, full-length statue of the emperor, which would have been about ten feet high overall.
Locks of hair combed forward frame the closely shaven face. Thick eyebrows arch over upward gazing eyes. Although the nose, mouth, chin, and ears have been restored, the identification of the subject is certain. The physiognomy compares favorably with the emperor's traits as depicted on imperial portraiture, such as coinage. The large eyes may reflect Eastern influence and may also indicate spiritual concerns. The statue probably was intended to be seen from the front, since the back of the head is treated rather sketchily.
Colossal statues of the gods were made in antiquity for temple sanctuaries. A number of emperors before Constantine had erected such images of themselves, in civic buildings or imperial forums, emphasizing their might and godlike status. This portrait head was sculpted about a year after Constantine founded Constantinople.
*Note: This sculpture will not be on view for one or two years due to the reinstallation of the Greek and Roman Galleries.
Classroom Hints:
Notice: expression, material
Discuss: identity, size, meaning
Compare: Double-Faced Enkolpion; Saint George
Next Image
