Imperial portraiture refers to the artistic representation of emperors and imperial figures in ancient Rome, intended to communicate their power, divine status, and authority. This form of art served as a vital tool for propaganda, portraying the emperor as a god-like figure or a protector of the state, thereby solidifying their political legitimacy and societal role. Through its stylistic and thematic choices, imperial portraiture evolved over time, reflecting broader changes in political ideology and artistic expression.
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