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Statuette of the Emperor Constantine
Roman Provincial
Late Imperial Period, Constantinian
about A.D. 306
Medium/Technique
Bronze
Dimensions
Height: 18.6 cm (7 5/16 in.)
Credit Line
Gift of Mr. and Mrs. Benjamin Rowland, Jr.
Accession Number62.1204
CollectionsAncient Greece and Rome
ClassificationsSculpture
Catalogue Raisonné
Greek, Etruscan, & Roman Bronzes (MFA), no. 177; Sculpture in Stone and Bronze (MFA), p. 121 (additional published references).
DescriptionConstantine is represented in the guise of an officer in the legions. He wears an animal's skin (pinned as a cloak on one shoulder) above the imperial diadem, a simple cuirass with cingulum, tunic below, and boots. There is a tang between the feet. Right arm and left hand broken off. Green patina.
The emperor wears armor and a cloak made of an animal's skin to symbolize his heroic leadership and prowess.
The emperor wears armor and a cloak made of an animal's skin to symbolize his heroic leadership and prowess.
ProvenanceBy 1962: Mr. and Mrs. Benjamin Rowland, Jr. Collection (said to have come from Gaul); year-end gift of Mr. and Mrs. Benjamin Rowland, Jr. to MFA, December 31, 1962