Egypt (Roman Period, Alexandria)

Detailed Stylistic and Historical Analysis of the Hair Ornamentation on the Antonine Portrait Bust of a Roman Matron

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Date Created: Created A.D. 140–150. Period: The Antonine Period of the Roman Empire (mid-2nd century A.D.), an era renowned for technical advancements in sculptural carving, optical texturing using running drills, and sophisticated imperial court hairstyles.

Elite Status Signification: In Roman society, complex and meticulously maintained coiffures served as primary visual markers of aristocratic status, wealth, and adherence to high fashion. Dynastic Alignment and Social Identity: By adopting a hairstyle derivative of Empress Faustina the Elder (who died in A.D. 141), the matron utilized her hairstyle as a communicative medium to signal loyalty to the imperial house, civic virtue, and elite refinement.