This modern portrait, coming from the Giustiniani Collection, represents Emperor Vitellius, who reigned for eight months, from April to December 69 AD. The portrait resembles other pseudo-antique replicas in the exaggerated facial features such as: the brutal expression beneath scowling brows, the swollen surfaces of the face, the balding forehead and the marked wrinkles. The Torlonia replica is amongst the best executed post-Renaissance reproductions.
The bust, covered by armor and paludamentum was probably created in occasion of its installation in the Lungara Museum.
Inventory: MT 535
Material: White marble
Technique: Work sculpted through the use of: chisels (also square-tipped and toothed) rasps
Dating: Modern age
Origin: Giustiniani Collection
