Antoninus Pius

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This is a stunning face-portrait ancient sculpture portraying Antoninus Pius, Roman emperor from 138 to 161. He was one of the Five Good Emperors in the Nerva-Antonine dynasty and a prominent member of the Aurelii family. Born into a distinguished senatorial family, Antoninus held various high-ranking offices during the reign of Emperor Hadrian, earning favor which led to his adoption as Hadrian's son and successor just before Hadrian's death. He earned the name Pius after ascending to the throne, likely because he persuaded the Senate to deify his adoptive father Hadrian or possibly because he intervened to save senators sentenced to death by Hadrian in his later years. His reign is remarkable for its peaceful nature, with no significant revolts or military incursions during this period, and for governing without ever leaving Italy. A successful military campaign in southern Scotland early in his reign resulted in the construction of the Antonine Wall. As an accomplished administrator, Antoninus left a substantial surplus in the treasury, expanded free access to drinking water throughout the Empire, encouraged legal conformity, and facilitated the enfranchisement of freed slaves. He died of illness in 161 and was succeeded by his adopted sons Marcus Aurelius and Lucius Verus as co-emperors.