Bronze Statue of Camillus at MET, New York

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As soon as he seized power, Emperor Augustus launched a program aimed at restoring time-honored values of virtue, honor, and piety. Reviving religious cults, building temples, and filling the calendar with public ceremonies and sacrifices were all part of his plan. Men from every rank chose to be portrayed in acts of pious sacrifice. The popular sculpture type seen here shows young boys serving as acolytes at religious ceremonies. The identification of this figure as a camillus, an attendant at sacrifices chosen from noble families, is based on comparisons with other stages and reliefs, particularly the famous monument, the Ara Pacis of Augustus. According to Roman tradition, a camillus had to be below puberty age and both parents must be alive. This statue may have been dedicated at a sanctuary by the boy's parents in recognition of his service to the gods. Alternatively, its refined decorative qualities signal its use as an adornment within a religious precinct, such as a dining room for priests. The figure's eyes are inlaid with silver, lips with copper, and tunic strips with copper to suggest woven or embroidered bands of color. He likely held ritual objects like a container for incense in his left hand and a jug for wine or ladle in his right. This object is part of the "Scan The World" initiative introduced by MyMiniFactory. Scan the World creates a digital archive of fully 3D printable sculptures, artworks, and landmarks from around the globe accessible for free to the public. It's an open-source community effort; if you have interesting items and would like to contribute, email stw@myminifactory.com to find out how to help.