Encaustic portrait of a man
On loan to The Met
This work of art is currently on loan to the museum.Painters of panel portraits employed a wide range of styles. In this example, the artist shaped the individual’s face and features using fine brushstrokes. The hair and eyes were, as usual, painted with somber colors enlivened by white highlights, but a strong vein of color in reddish hues, from rose to crimson, was employed to create rich undertones in the flesh.
It has been pointed out that, with his thick curls, triangular face, and pointed beard, this individual bears a close resemblance to one of the portrait types associated with the Roman emperor Marcus Aurelius. His regnal years thus serve to date this panel.
It has been pointed out that, with his thick curls, triangular face, and pointed beard, this individual bears a close resemblance to one of the portrait types associated with the Roman emperor Marcus Aurelius. His regnal years thus serve to date this panel.
Artwork Details
- Title: Encaustic portrait of a man
- Period: Roman Period
- Date: A.D. 161–180
- Geography: From Egypt
- Medium: Encaustic on wood
- Dimensions: 35.5 x 20.3 cm (14 x 8 in)
- Credit Line: On loan from a private collection
- Object Number: L.2008.20
- Curatorial Department: Egyptian Art