Limestone cippus of Olympos

Unknown

ca. 2nd–3rd century CE · Limestone · Greek and Roman Art

The inscription on this poorly-made cylindrical cippus can be clearly read. It has long been taken to be the grave marker of Olympos, but his name is given in the genitive instead of in the vocative case for it should say “Courage, Olympos.” These two words are followed by the common adage, “No-one is immortal.”

Artist

Unknown

Date

ca. 2nd–3rd century CE

Medium

Limestone

Culture

Roman, Cypriot

Department

Greek and Roman Art

Credit line

The Cesnola Collection, Purchased by subscription, 1874–76