Bust of Antinous

myminifactory

This masterpiece is crafted from a long-lost relic - the bust and the left and back portion of the head - skillfully restored in modern times as Antinous, the young Bithynian darling of Emperor Hadrian who met his untimely demise in AD 130 and was subsequently elevated to divine status. We know Antinous's unique characteristics from numerous sculptures and images that adorn Roman Empire coins scattered throughout its vast territory. In recent centuries, his image became an instantly recognizable icon, particularly after the discovery of the ancient relief depicting him, unearthed in 1735 at Hadrian's Villa and now proudly displayed in the Albani collection. The Ludovisi sculpture may well have been created during this peak period of Antinous's popularity, when depictions of him reached a fever pitch throughout the Roman Empire.