Portrait of Julius Caesar (?), The Green Caesar

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The Green Caesar stands out as a portrait of Gaius Julius Caesar crafted from vibrant green slate housed within the Antikensammlung Berlin (inventory number Sk 342), dating back to around the 1st century AD. Unanimous agreement exists that the individual portrayed in this bust is indeed Julius Caesar. The only known portraits of him originating from his lifetime are those found on coins, which barely idealize and depict him with distinct features. All sculptural portraits were created after his death. The Green Caesar belongs to a group of late Republican portraits that appear highly personalized to modern viewers but actually reproduce various idealized characteristics. These depictions convey the values and qualities expected of a statesman by employing typological forms and standardized formulas. As such, the signs of aging in this bust signify authority (auctoritas), while the gaze and expression exhibit dignity and strictness (gravitas and severitas) and the tilt of the head conveys dynamism and vigor. The viewer perceives a serious and dignified man acutely aware of his position and the duties that accompany it, as well as his entitlement to it. The austere, sober style imitates the sobriety and endurance of a successful general, despite the clothing being that of a statesman rather than a general. The actual circumstances surrounding the portrait's creation remain unclear. Many archaeologists place it in the 1st century BC, but the majority favor the 1st century AD, during the early Imperial period. It was likely created in Egypt, as the green slate used derives from Upper Egypt. Additionally, the engraving of the hair instead of carving it in the round follows Late Egyptian art conventions, as do the firm, heavy contours of the slate.