Augustus of Prima Porta
The artist
Unknown Roman sculptor working for the imperial court.
What you see
A grand statue of Rome's first emperor, Augustus, standing in decorated armor and raising one arm as if speaking to his soldiers.
The story
Made in the early first century AD, it was created to show Augustus as a calm, powerful, and almost timeless leader of the Roman world.
The style
It is carved from marble and was once brightly painted, with tiny scenes pressed into the breastplate that tell of Rome's victories.
Look closer
Look closely at his armor, which is covered with little carved figures, and at the small cupid riding a dolphin near his feet.
Where to see it
It is displayed in the Vatican Museums in Rome, Italy, where visitors can admire its fine details.
Fun fact
The statue was found near a villa owned by Augustus's wife, Livia, at a place called Prima Porta, which is how it got its name.