guy Posted August 10, 2025 Report Share Posted August 10, 2025 (edited) A Roman head sculpture was discovered in Aspendos, Turkey. It was found during excavations at the local Roman theater (pictured below), which was built during the reign of Marcus Aurelius. The sculpture dates to the late 3rd century AD and measures 40 cm (15 inches). 🏛️ Discovery Overview A 1,700-year-old marble statue head, believed to depict a Roman emperor, was uncovered in Aspendos, an ancient city in southern Türkiye. The artifact dates to the late 3rd century AD (around 250–300 AD), a period marked by significant political and artistic change in the Roman Empire. 🎨 Artistic Significance The statue combines Roman verism (hyper-realistic features like wrinkles and furrowed lips) with Hellenistic emotional depth (introspective gaze and tilted neck). Scholars state it depicts a transitional portrait style, blending realism with humanity to express imperial authority and moral significance.. 🏙️ Aspendos Context Aspendos, known for its well-preserved Roman theater, was a significant urban hub in Pamphylia. The statue was discovered in the Roman forum, a ceremonial and civic center, indicating it once served as a symbol of imperial ideology. The discovery contributes to ongoing excavations of public buildings, baths, and aqueducts, enhancing our understanding of Roman urban planning in Anatolia. https://www.anatolianarchaeology.net/roman-emperors-shadow-appears-in-aspendos-1700-year-old-statue-head-found/#google_vignette Video on the marvelous Roman theater in Aspendos: Edited August 10, 2025 by guy Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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