tic kingdoms. Artists in the Hellenistic era sought to represent the individual and the specific. This marked the beginning of royal portraiture on coins.In contrast to the deified portrayal of Alexander, the representation of Philip the Arab of Rome is that of a common man. The changing character of imperial rule influenced the evolution of portrait sculpture during Rome’s Late Empire. Unlike earlier rulers of antiquity who came to power through inheritance, emperors of this time period gained political power from successful military leadership. The middle decades of the 3rd century were characterized by unrest in many spheres of life: economic, religious, military, and political. Philip seized power in 244 CE from Gordian III, after plotting his murder. His short reign, before being murdered himself, was successful. Philip’s career is typical of his time, but historians have maligned his memory since his death, and it has affected the understanding of his public portraits.The bust of Philip the Arab was sculpted around 244-249 CE in the Republican veristic style. This style is concerned in capturing the exterior likeness of a person with visible details. Philip is portrayed as a common Roman and as an emperor with concerns over matters of the state. It is a remarkably good portrayal of Philip and a great example of Roman portrait sculpture with its accurate presentation of psychological characteristics and expressiveness.The sculptor has captured a temporary fleeting expression; seemingly of anxiety as Philip turns his head to the right. The effect is almost that of a photograph. The furrowed brow drilled uplifted eyes and heavily lined forehead serve to give Philip a preoccupied look. His image is an expression of the extreme anxiety and stress of troubled times. Interestingly, Philip does not confront the spectator with a look of command; instead, he turns away with an expression of sadness and distress. ...
