Bust of Emperor Caracalla
- Artist
- Joseph Claus, German, 1718–1788
- Depicted
- Caracalla, Emperor of Rome, reigned 198–217 AD
- Date
- 1757
- Material
- Marble
- associated with
- Rome, Lazio region, Italy, Europe
- Classification
- Sculpture
- Current Location
- On View, Gallery 202
- Dimensions
- 28 3/4 x 20 x 8 in. (73 x 50.8 x 20.3 cm)
- Credit Line
- Museum Purchase
- Rights
- Contact Us
- Object Number
- 19:2013
NOTES
This bust is modeled after a famous ancient sculpture of Caracalla, a notorious 3rd-century Roman emperor. The stern features and steely gaze embody the cruelty and abuse of power for which Caracalla was known. Creating busts of ancient rulers and dignitaries was popular among 18th-century sculptors working in Rome who made copies for English travelers. Sculpture Hall, in the center of the Saint Louis Art Museum’s main building, was inspired by the expansive Roman public baths that Caracalla built.