This portrait is reminiscent of a Julio-Claudian emperor. In fact, the hairless face, the small, slightly curly locks high on the forehead and the slightly protruding ears give this portrait an eternal youthfulness, typical of representations of Augustus and the members of his family.
Note
The representation of the man reduced to his head and shoulders is a Roman invention. This example is made of semi-precious stone and is inspired by large marble statuary. This type of "miniature portrait" could easily be disseminated in the provinces as political propaganda.
The eternal youth that emanates from this idealized portrait brings it closer to classical Greek statuary, which strongly distinguishes it from realistic republican portraits.
Bust and pedestal are carved from a single piece of chalcedony and mounted on a precious goldsmith's base, adorned with a vegetal garland in gilded silver of Napoleon III-style.
