Late Roman, Imperial Period, possibly Phrygia, ca. 3rd century CE. Skillfully carved from a single piece of white marble, a funerary stele or commemorative marker that depicts three individuals - from left to right, two males and a female. All present similar expressions comprised of large open eyes with delineated pupils, thick lids, and arched brows, an aquiline nose, and gently smiling lips. Their facial planes are modeled so as to emphasize full cheeks, rounded chins, and arched foreheads. The males are presented with combed back coiffures and the female has a veil that curls at its lower ends so as to suggest breasts. Just who might this grave stele commemorate? Siblings? Cousins? We may never know. Nevertheless, it is a special example that marks the transition from naturalistic and idealized artistic expressions of the Classical World to the more symbolic visages that would be associated with the Middle Ages centuries later. Size: 21" W x 16" H (53.3 cm x 40.6 cm); 19" H (48.3 cm) on included custom stand.

Prior to the 2nd century, Romans cremated the deceased. But in time, inspired by the Greek and Etruscan practice of using sarcophagi, they began to place the deceased in sarcophagi. This practice spread rapidly throughout the Roman Empire. In the western part of the Empire, sarcophagi were placed inside a mausoleum against a wall or in a niche, so the only decorated panels were on the front and short sides.

Provenance: private East Coast, USA collection

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#140286

Losses to peripheries as shown. Abrasions to surface, especially to high pointed areas such as the noses, lips, and chins of the figures. Stable fissures at upper end. Iron rich stain over left-most bust and a few lighter stains here and there. Still, an overall very nice piece of funerary art.