Ancient Splendor: Roman Art in the Time of Trajan at Saint Louis Art Museum
The Saint Louis Art Museum is showcasing 'Ancient Splendor: Roman Art in the Time of Trajan', an exhibition that reexamines the period of Emperor Trajan (98–117 CE) by emphasizing sensuality and the role of women, thus challenging conventional masculine perspectives. Curated by Lucrezia Ungaro from Rome and organized with the assistance of Hannah Segrave, the exhibition includes over 70 pieces borrowed from Italian institutions, such as the Vatican and the Naples National Archaeological Museum, many of which have never been displayed outside Italy. It underscores the significant influence of women like Trajan's wife, Plotina, who championed education and social aid, and his sister, Marciana. The exhibition, featuring a colossal bust of Plotina alongside Trajan's, runs until August 16 at 1 Fine Arts Drive, St. Louis, Missouri.
Key facts
- Exhibition 'Ancient Splendor: Roman Art in the Time of Trajan' at Saint Louis Art Museum through August 16.
- Organized by Lucrezia Ungaro, archaeological curator of the city of Rome, with curator Hannah Segrave leading on-site production.
- Features works on loan from Vatican, Ostia Antica, National Roman Museum, and Naples National Archaeological Museum, many never before outside Italy.
- Highlights the influence of women during Trajan's reign, including Plotina and Marciana.
- Includes a colossal bust of Plotina same size as Trajan's, suggesting partnership.
- Olfactory stations designed by Alexy Karenowska offer scents of perfumed oil and garum.
- Statue of Trajan in military costume with pteryges skirt and paludamentum cloak.
- Statue of Sabina as Ceres, nearly intact after almost 2,000 years.
- Exhibition challenges masculine connotations of Roman Empire, focusing on sensuality and culture.
- Trajan ruled from 98 to 117 CE as second of the 'Five Good Emperors'.
Entities
Artists
- Lucrezia Ungaro
- Hannah Segrave
- Alexy Karenowska
- Trajan
- Plotina
- Marciana
- Sabina
- Apollo
- Ceres
- Caligula
Institutions
- Saint Louis Art Museum
- Institute for Digital Archaeology
- Vatican
- Ostia Antica
- National Roman Museum
- Naples National Archaeological Museum
- Hyperallergic
Locations
- St. Louis
- Missouri
- Rome
- Italy