Fragment of a Lion Sarcophagus, c. 250-275
Romanexpand_more
Marbleexpand_more
Gift of the Miller Family Collection: Leslie and Frank Altmanexpand_more 2004.209
Not on Viewexpand_more
In the early centuries of the Roman Empire, most Romans practiced cremation. However, in the 2nd century, the dominant rite changed to burial and sarcophagi (stone coffins) became fashionable. Since the Romans did not have a strong religious belief in the afterlife, the decoration was usually secular, often depicting subjects derived from Greek mythology, rather than references to death or the afterlife.
Lions were a favorite motif on Roman saracophagi. They appeared in Bacchic processions, or as the prey in elaborate hunt compositions, but were also used in a symbolic sense. Isolated lion heads functioned much like the gorgon apotropaion, a protective device believed to ward off evil. This lion's deeply cut, piercing eyes, and shaggy, drill-worked mane produce an appropriately aggressive image.
Details
- Title
- Fragment of a Lion Sarcophagus
- Role
- Artist
- Accession Number
- 2004.209
- Curator Approved
This record has been reviewed by our curatorial staff but may be incomplete. These records are frequently revised and enhanced. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please email collectionsdata@artsmia.org.
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