The artwork titled “Young Octavian” was created by artist Edmonia Lewis in the year 1873. It is a marble sculpture belonging to the Neoclassicism movement and can be classified under the genre of sculpture. This distinguished piece is located at the Smithsonian American Art Museum in Washington, DC, US.
The sculpture depicts a youthful figure rendered with meticulous detail and elegance, characteristic of the Neoclassical style. The subject, identified as Octavian, later known as Augustus, is portrayed with a serene and contemplative expression, exuding an air of quiet authority and introspection. The smooth and polished surface of the marble, combined with the refined simplicity of the form, highlights the artist’s skill in capturing subtle nuances of the human face and emotion. The bust rests on a circular pedestal, enhancing its classical aesthetic and commanding presence, thereby inviting viewers to appreciate both its artistic and historical significance.
