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Marble Portrait Bust of a Woman with a Scroll

late 4th–early 5th century
On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 301
This sensitively carved portrait bust presents a mature woman with a thoughtful expression and piercing gaze; the scroll held in her right hand signals an appreciation for classical learning and marks her as a member of the elite. She wears a mantle, tunic, and head covering, typical dress for an aristocratic woman. Such head coverings did not come into fashion until the fourth century. The bust likely formed part of a commemorative display, perhaps documenting a public donation, or was used in a domestic setting.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Marble Portrait Bust of a Woman with a Scroll
  • Date: late 4th–early 5th century
  • Geography: Made in Constantinople
  • Culture: Byzantine
  • Medium: Pentelic Marble
  • Dimensions: Overall: 20 7/8 x 10 13/16 x 8 3/4 in. (53 x 27.5 x 22.2 cm)
    Base: 1 7/8 x 12 1/2 x 6 3/4in. (4.8 x 31.8 x 17.1cm)
  • Classification: Sculpture-Stone
  • Credit Line: The Cloisters Collection, 1966
  • Object Number: 66.25
  • Curatorial Department: Medieval Art and The Cloisters

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