A Roman marble male portrait bust

myminifactory

A Roman marble male portrait bust created during the reign of Caracalla. The style of drilling in the hair is particular of certain portraits of Septimius Severus and of his son and heir, Caracalla. This change in style is attributed to Septimius's and Caracalla's North African heritage, and the former's military background. The Roman elite would often fashion private, personal portraits after the prevailing style of the reigning dynasties, and the present lot displays a deliberate imitation of the hair, beard and moustache sported by the ruling family of the early 3rd century A.D. The rendering of the hair and beard, which lacks the schematic drill work typical of portraits from the time of Septimius Severus, points to an execution date during the reign of Caracalla.   Part of the Bonhams Antiquities Sale, 6th July 2017 at New Bond Street, London. Lot 146 A ROMAN MARBLE MALE PORTRAIT BUST. Predicted £50,000-80,000. Sold for £100,000.