Bust of a Roman Lady at The State Hermitage Museum, St Petersburg

myminifactory

Under Emperor Trajan's rule (97-117 AD), the heroic ideals of the Republic saw a triumphant rebirth, reflected in the stern and simple forms of portraits depicting the emperor himself, his family members, and Roman nobility who emulated them. This portrait of a middle-aged Roman woman clearly showcases aristocratic heritage, as her head is crowned with a diadem shaped like a sickle moon, an attribute of goddess Juno. The diadem rises above a complex hairstyle popular in the final quarter of the 1st century and early 2nd century. The expression on this Roman matron's face is closed and strict, while the entire image is restrained, with even her luxuriant hair handled in a somewhat flat and generalized manner. In her facial features, we see a reflection of the republican ideals emphasizing strict morals and simplicity in life, which Trajan and his family championed - and embodied. Trajan's friend, writer Pliny the Younger, described the emperor's wife Plotina as "thrifty in their private lives, modest in her entourage, simple in demeanor." Trajan's sister Marciana and niece Matidia were also renowned for such qualities. The appearance of virtuous women from the emperor's family was mirrored in portraits of noble Roman women.