Despite being a controversial figure, Emperor Nero was a subject of Roman artwork, including busts and portrait sculptures. However, complete portraits of Nero are rare today, as his effigies were systematically destroyed due to his damnatio memoriae. Sculptures of controversial or cruel emperors like Nero are also difficult to find, making surviving pieces all the more valuable.
Emperor Nero’s initial name was Lucius Domitius Ahenobarbus before being adopted by Claudius. Nero is infamous for his cruelty, debauchery, and madness as a ruler. Despite his infamous reputation, such artworks serve as a historical record of his reign and contribute to our understanding of ancient Roman art.
Busts and portrait sculptures are considered a great legacy of Roman art. Nero’s death at the age of 30 marked the end of the Julio-Claudian dynasty and made him the last male descendant of Emperor Augustus. Despite the destruction of his effigies, surviving sculptures of Emperor Nero provide valuable insight into Roman art and political history.
