(artist(s) unknown, possible copy of bronze original) (e. 1st ad). Augustus of Primaporta [marble]. Musei Vaticani, Braccio Nuovo, Rome.

Augustus of Primaporta is much more than a larger-than-life sized (6'8") portrait of the first emperor. The exquisite idealization, references to divinity and separation from the observer by the use of a pedestal embellish the pious portion of his cult of personality. Content and emotional force are reduced to literal messages communicated through facial expression, gesture and dress. Formally, fully-developed and life-like detail typical of the Roman imperial style inspired by the Greek mature classical manner is employed. The combination of gesture and detail creates a simultaneously accessible and distant relationship between the figure and observer, of propaganda and reality.

A primary strength of this masterpiece is the illusionistically beautiful rendering of cloth, armor and flesh. Proportions relate to each other with the seamless elegance of works such as Diskobolos or Warrior A, though the impression of the emperor is of a man who is fully mature, without a hint of underdeveloped youth nor advanced age. Apollonian balance fully applies: Harmonious dominances in texturing, pious emotional content and masculinity provide context for interest based on contrast between life-like blended and defined edges. The interplay of void and mass place unique focus on the emperor’s gesture, which in turn emphasizes his calm character.