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Model after a roundel of ‘Trajan departing for the chase’ on the Arch of Constantine, Rome
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Model after a roundel of ‘Trajan departing for the chase’ on the Arch of Constantine, Rome
Plaster
Museum number: M1424
On display: Drawing Office - also known as the Students Room (pre-booked tours only)
All spaces are in No. 13 Lincoln's Inn Fields unless identified as in No. 12, Soane's first house.
For tours https://www.soane.org/your-visit
Curatorial note
This plaster roundel was probably modelled after a full-size cast from the Roman original. The original marble on the Arch of Constantine (dedicated in 315 AD) is one of a series of 8 roundels reused from an earlier monument of the Hadrianic period. It is one of a pair on the south side and depicts Antinous (Hadrian's favourite) on the left, the Emperor Hadrian (centre), an attendant and a friend of the court (amicus principis) departing for the hunt. Its pair shows them making a sacrifice to Silvanus, the Roman god of the woods.
In this plaster, the head of the Emperor, missing in the original Roman roundel, has been 'restored' by the plasterer who made this version and a modern framing supplied, perhaps to Soane's own specification. Soane thought the subject was the Emperor Trajan (53-117 AD) but it is today identified as his successor, the Emperor Hadrian (76-138 AD).
In this plaster, the head of the Emperor, missing in the original Roman roundel, has been 'restored' by the plasterer who made this version and a modern framing supplied, perhaps to Soane's own specification. Soane thought the subject was the Emperor Trajan (53-117 AD) but it is today identified as his successor, the Emperor Hadrian (76-138 AD).
Associated items
Comments
We apologise for the fact that the image does not show the complete object. This cast is inaccessible being both high up and behind the structure of Soane's architectural office. This makes it very difficult to reach or photograph. We will upload a better image as soon as one is available.
Soane collections online is being continually updated. If you wish to find out more or if you have any further information about this object please contact us: worksofart@soane.org.uk