80 likes | 104 Views
Explore the realism of the bust depicting Emperor Philip the Arabian during Rome's tumultuous times. Discover the contrasting interpretations of his character through Wheeler and Hannah's perspectives. Compare this veristic style with the idealistic representation of Commodus. Uncover how Roman art glorifies emperors through symbolism and portrayal of character.
E N D
(i) Name the emperor shown in the bust (ii) What was the imperial period he belongs to - explain. [ACH] (i) Philip the Arabian OR Caesar Marcus Julius Philippus Augustus (as emperor) (ii) Barrack Emperors – One of a series of strong army commanders who rose to the top during the unrest of the times following the ruinous rule of Commodus.
i) When was this bust made – a range? ii) what important event occurred during his reign?[ACH] i) AD 244-249 (Philips reign) ii) Romes 1000yr anniversary
(i) What size is this.(ii) What is it made of? [ACH] (i) 71cm (ii) Marble.
i) What style is it made in.ii) What’s unusual about the toga [ACH] i) veristic (or realism) ii) has a plain slab of fabric across the brest.
Describe four features of this work which are in this style. [MER] - Furrowed eye brows, - looking upward (for inspiration?) - wrinkled forehead - worried/care-worn expression - close cropped hair/beard - very “everyday”: like a guy in the street - Syrian big nose, high cheekbones, strong jawline
i) name another work studied this year in this style ii) identify two stylistic similarities with this earlier work. [MER] ) Patrician carrying busts. ii) - Both show likeness without embellishment (warts and all both are plainly dressed both depict “character” in the subject rather than add a lot odf symbols to an idealistic representation. (Other answers possible.)
Philips character has been interpreted from this bust in two contrasting ways (Wheeler & Hannah). Explain what each makes of Philip, with their evidence from the bust and/or history[EXC] Wheeler – sees a weak, shifty, aloof man. Evidence: his unconfident, scared, look, and eyes looking away. Historically he ruled only a 5 years, and was overthrown by his own men (as well as possibly killing his predecessor – Gordianus III) Hannah – sees a conscientious man burdened by the cares of the time in an unstable empire. Evidence: anxious, care-worn face, deep worry lines at brows. Not trying to put on an impressive, regal face for the portrait. Historical turbulent times with many short-lived emperors, and Persian and gothic invaders at the border.
i) contrast this style with that of The bust of Commodus (give 2 examples that illustrate this contrast) ii) How successfully do Roman art works glorify the emperors they portray? Your answer should make at least TWO points in relation to this work and a further TWO points in relation to another Roman art work you have studied this year.[EXC] i) Philip: veristic, plain, no symbolic features, small contrast in textures. Vs Commodus: idealistic, ornate, many symbolic features, contrasting textures (polished skin, drilled hair, lion skin) ii) Commodus – emperor is idealised, linked to demigods (Hercules), symbols link him to prosperity, fertility, power, strength, fortune etc. Is successful doing this for those who value fantastical/mythological links in their rulers (though the artist might be mocking ??) Philip – Emperor is shown as strong, human, with character, burdened. Successful, is likely to appeal to people who value honesty, directness, strength, character in their rulers.