Artwork preview

Commodus, Emperor, reigned A.D. 177-192 [obverse]

Giovanni da Cavino

National Gallery of Art

The image shows a coin-like sculpture with the profile of a man's head. The man depicted has curly hair, a beard, and wears a laurel wreath. The sculpture is metallic, with a coppery-brown color and golden-yellow highlights. The circular form resembles a medallion with inscriptions around the subject, though some are obscured. The detailing of the drapery and hair texture adds realism to the piece. The craftsmanship displayed appears typical of ancient coinage artworks.

Artwork Details

Date
mid 16th century
Medium
bronze//Struck
Dimensions
3546 × 3488 px
Public Domain
Yes
Museum Record
View original