About this piece
back to topA terracotta portrait bust of Caracalla, Roman Emperor from 198 to 217 AD. The Emperor is depicted in expressive detail and wears a swathed toga which is glazed in white for a striking colour contrast. Similar portrait busts, showing Caracalla with cropped hair, stubble beard and a menacing glare, are found on display in museums across the globe including The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York and The St. Louis Art Museum, Missouri.
Historically, Emperor Caracalla is regarded as one of the most bloodthirsty Roman tyrants. He was infamous for his ruthless approach to rule, eliminating rivals in an instant, even his own brother and co-emperor, Geta. This provides explanation for his seemingly stern expression with a furrowed brow and sharp gaze, conveying a forbidding posture suggestive of power and might.
