Priestess

Marble

Roman, 110 – 130 CE

Italy

The British Museum

Details

Culture/Civilisation

Ancient Rome

Theme

Ancient Societies

Subtheme

Working for others

Case Title

The Priestess

Display Location

Coomaraswamy Hall

Findspot

Capua, Italy

Measurements

42 x 26 x 28 cm

Accession Number

1902,0428.3

Description

Two narrow woollen bands above her forehead identify this Roman woman as a priestess – the only respectable public role available to women in most ancient societies. Her fashionably styled hair is modestly covered; she shows clear signs of middle–age. This head was probably part of a public statute erected in her honour.