Imperial period

Definition

The imperial period refers to the time in Roman history from the establishment of the Roman Empire in 27 BCE, when Augustus became the first emperor, until the fall of the Western Roman Empire in 476 CE. This era is marked by significant developments in art, culture, and governance, with a strong focus on imperial propaganda and the representation of authority through sculpture, particularly in portraiture and historical reliefs.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The imperial period saw the rise of portraiture that emphasized realism and individuality, reflecting Roman ideals of virtus (virtue) and dignitas (dignity).
2. Emperors commissioned sculptures not only to commemorate their reigns but also to reinforce their legitimacy and divine connections through artistic representation.
3. Historical reliefs became a popular medium for illustrating significant events, military victories, and civic achievements, often decorating public spaces like triumphal arches.
4. The use of scale and proportion in sculptures during the imperial period was crucial in conveying the power and grandeur of the emperor and the empire.
5. Different regions of the empire began developing their own sculptural styles during this period, reflecting local traditions while also adhering to Roman ideals.

Review Questions

• How did portraiture evolve during the imperial period, and what does this evolution reflect about Roman society?
  • During the imperial period, portraiture evolved to emphasize realism and individual characteristics, moving away from idealized forms. This shift reflects a society that valued personal achievement, virtue, and connection to the state. Emperors commissioned realistic portraits to convey authority and relatability, reinforcing their status as both rulers and figures of the people.
• Discuss the role of historical reliefs in imperial propaganda and how they were utilized to communicate political messages.
  • Historical reliefs played a key role in imperial propaganda by visually narrating significant events, military conquests, and civic accomplishments. These sculptures served as public reminders of the emperor's achievements and capabilities. Through strategic placement in forums and public spaces, they communicated a narrative that highlighted the stability and greatness of Rome under imperial rule, effectively shaping public perception.
• Evaluate how the artistic practices during the imperial period contributed to Rome's identity as an empire and its lasting influence on Western art.
  • Artistic practices during the imperial period significantly contributed to Rome's identity as a powerful empire by showcasing its military successes, cultural achievements, and strong leadership through various forms of sculpture. The emphasis on realistic portraiture and grand historical reliefs established an artistic language that conveyed authority and legitimacy. This legacy influenced Western art for centuries to come, laying foundations for future representations of power and governance in visual culture.

Related terms

Augustan Age: The period during the reign of Emperor Augustus, characterized by political stability, cultural flourishing, and the promotion of arts that celebrated Rome's power.

Propaganda:

The use of art and imagery to promote a specific political agenda, especially in showcasing the emperor's achievements and divine status.

Relief Sculpture: A sculptural technique where figures are carved into a background, commonly used in imperial monuments to narrate historical events or portray important individuals.