Silver bust of Serapis

Unknown

2nd century CE · Silver · Greek and Roman Art

By the second century A.D., Serapis had become one of the most popular deities in the Roman Empire. Many images of the god took the form of portable busts, suitable for dedication or for private worship. Silver busts of Serapis are mentioned in an inscription found in Rome, but this is apparently the only extant example. The modius (grain basket) always shown on the god’s head is now missing.

Artist

Unknown

Date

2nd century CE

Medium

Silver

Culture

Roman

Department

Greek and Roman Art

Credit line

Gift of Jan Mitchell and sons, 1991