Ara Pacis

Definition

The Ara Pacis, or Altar of Peace, is an ancient Roman monument dedicated to Pax, the Roman goddess of peace. Commissioned by the Senate in 13 BCE to honor Emperor Augustus' return from Hispania and Gaul, it symbolizes the peace and prosperity established during his reign and serves as a key example of Roman art and architecture in daily life.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Ara Pacis was inaugurated in 9 BCE and features intricate reliefs that depict historical events and mythological figures, emphasizing Augustus' role in restoring peace.
2. The altar is surrounded by a rectangular enclosure adorned with elaborate carvings showcasing both earthly and divine themes, reflecting the connection between the emperor and the gods.
3. It is considered one of the most important examples of Augustan art, highlighting how art was used to communicate political messages during the early Roman Empire.
4. In 1937, the Ara Pacis was relocated to a modern museum designed by architect Richard Meier, emphasizing its significance as a cultural heritage site.
5. The altar's imagery includes representations of motherhood and fertility, which were key themes in Augustan propaganda aimed at promoting family values and moral restoration in Rome.

Review Questions

• How does the Ara Pacis reflect the ideals of Augustus' reign and its significance in Roman society?
  • The Ara Pacis reflects Augustus' ideals through its intricate reliefs that celebrate peace, prosperity, and the emperor's achievements. It served as a powerful symbol of the Pax Romana, promoting Augustus as a divine leader who restored order to Rome after years of civil war. The altar's design incorporates both historical events and mythical references, reinforcing Augustus' authority and connection to the gods, which resonated deeply with Roman society.
• Analyze how the artistic elements of the Ara Pacis contribute to its function as imperial propaganda.
  • The artistic elements of the Ara Pacis, including its detailed relief sculptures and grand architectural design, work together to function as effective imperial propaganda. The carvings depict scenes of historical significance that promote Augustus' military victories while also celebrating family values and civic duty. This combination of imagery not only highlights Augustus' achievements but also encourages citizens to embrace traditional Roman values, solidifying his position as a benevolent leader responsible for Rome's prosperity.
• Evaluate the impact of the Ara Pacis on our understanding of Roman art and its role in daily life during Augustus' rule.
  • The Ara Pacis significantly impacts our understanding of Roman art by illustrating how artistic expression served practical purposes in daily life under Augustus' rule. It showcases how monumental art was not just for decoration but played an essential role in communicating political ideologies and social values. The emphasis on themes such as peace, family, and divine favor demonstrates how art was intertwined with the identity of Rome during this period. This evaluation highlights the importance of monuments like the Ara Pacis in shaping public perception and fostering a cohesive civic identity among Romans.

Related terms

Pax Romana: A period of relative peace and stability across the Roman Empire that lasted for about 200 years, starting with Augustus' reign.

Imperial Propaganda: Artistic and architectural strategies used by emperors to promote their image, achievements, and legitimacy among the Roman populace.

Relief Sculpture: A sculptural technique where figures are carved into a solid background, commonly used in Roman art to convey narrative and symbolism.