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A statue of Augustus looking down with one hand holding a staff and the other raised. There is a small cherub at his feet.

Name the statue above. Explain three examples of symbolism used by the artist when designing this statue.

User Tesa
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Answer:

The statue is Augustus of Primaporta and it has many symbols that reflect Augustus' status and life

Step-by-step explanation:

The statue's name is Augustus of Primaporta, due to the fact it was found in the Villa of Livia (Augustus’ wife) in the part of Rome called Prima Porta (first door). It is a very detailed statue, with many symbols that portray elements of Augustus’ life and glory. Some of the symbols are:

  • Relief on his chest presents a variety of gods and goddesses, each having a specific meaning – Apollo, Augustus’ patron, Caelus, the god of the sky, So, the god of the sun, as well a Sphinxes that represent his defeat over Cleopatra
  • Bare feet presented on the statue symbolize Augustus’ status. Bare feet can show that he is regarded as a hero or even a god. While on the rest of the statue Augustus is presented as a soldier, his bare feet indicate his godly status as only gods were shown with bare feet.
  • Cupid or cherub his feet are actually riding a dolphin. Dolphin represents Augustus' great victory in the naval battle of Actium, after which he defeated Mark Anthony and Cleopatra, and ruled over Egypt.
User Xmhafiz
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