Elite and mass appeal of Roman imperial female portraiture: the case of Vibia Sabina

Abstract

Sabina's portraiture has been characterized by her mature type that evokes the ideal adornment of Hellenic goddesses. Yet her earlier heads show experimentation with coiffures also depicted on private portraits. One portrait head, in particular, represents Sabina with a hybrid coiffure, combining elements of a period style with those connoting Venus. The process of development of portrait types, and their relationship to private portraits may be delineated through a study of such lesser-known works.

Keywords

• archaeology
• art history
• sculpture