Fragment, Marble, Carved, Roman
Production date
64 BCE-198 CE
Country
Syria
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Object detail
Description
Carved Roman marble fragment with Acanthus grape-leaf design, this motif associated with Bacchus. Possibly from the crown of a pillar.
Classification
ARCHAEOLOGY Roman
Production date
64 BCE-198 CE
Production place
Measurements
L93mm x W60mm x D28mm
Media/Materials description
Marble
Signature/Marks
J.94
History and use
This is a portion of a marble column, with possible Acanthus grape leaf decorative motif, associated with Bacchus. Marble had been used in Greece for centuries, The Romans became greatly impressed by its characteristics and started using it. White marble was particularly valued and used in massive public buildings, including temples, arches, public baths and sculptures. This piece is from the body of the column and does not feature decorative elements. Over time, the sturdy, plain Doric order transformed to the more expensive slender Ionic order, which then gave way to the embellished and extensively used Corinthian Order with its Acanthus leaf capitals.
Associated person
Registration number
E40077
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