Advanced Search 
View: Front
Portrait bust of the Emperor Maximinus (A.D. 235–238)
Roman
Imperial Period
Medium/Technique
Greek mainland marble; the restored neck is Italian (Luna) marble
Dimensions
70.2 x 20 cm (27 5/8 x 7 7/8 in.)
Credit Line
Benjamin Pierce Cheney Donation
Accession Number89.4
NOT ON VIEW
CollectionsAncient Greece and Rome
ClassificationsSculpture
Catalogue Raisonné
Sculpture in Stone (MFA), no. 374; Sculpture in Stone and Bronze (MFA), p. 115-116 (additional published references).
DescriptionThe section of the neck has been replaced; the ears, particularly the left, are somewhat damaged; and there is other superficial damage.
The head is ancient and, although reworked, has strong individual characteristics which confirm the identification. The greatest area of recutting is around the eyes, which have lost most of their third century A.D. character, such as large, incised pupils. The bust is ancient but does not belong with this head.
The head is ancient and, although reworked, has strong individual characteristics which confirm the identification. The greatest area of recutting is around the eyes, which have lost most of their third century A.D. character, such as large, incised pupils. The bust is ancient but does not belong with this head.
ProvenanceBy date unknown: said to be in the Ludovisi Collection; by 1888: with R. Lanciani (said to come from the Ludovisi villa); purchased by MFA from R. Lanciani, December 8, 1888, for $173.91 (this is the total price for MFA 89.4-89.8)