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Veristic sculptures

Definition

Veristic sculptures are realistic portraits created during the Roman Republic period (circa 509–27 BCE). They depict individuals with exaggerated facial features such as wrinkles, sagging skin, and other signs of aging or physical characteristics.

Analogy

Imagine veristic sculptures as hyper-detailed Snapchat filters that show every wrinkle, blemish, or imperfection on someone's face. These sculptures aimed to capture not just physical appearance but also convey wisdom and character through their lifelike representation.

Related terms

Idealized Sculptures: In contrast to veristic sculptures, idealized sculptures were created during the Classical period (5th century BCE) with an emphasis on portraying perfect beauty rather than realism.

Portrait Busts: These are sculptural representations of a person's head, neck, and sometimes shoulders. They were popular during the Roman Empire and served as a way to honor individuals or commemorate their achievements.

Patrician: The term refers to the wealthy upper-class citizens of ancient Rome who held political power and often commissioned veristic sculptures to display their status and influence.