Head of a Horse in the Walters Art Museum, September 2009

Head of a Horse

Originally part of a large equestrian monument, this head allows us to imagine what was a common sight for the ancient viewer: imposing public statuary that embodied the civic values of imperial Rome. Military officials were often depicted on horseback, and the rider that was represented on the monument was likely a member of the imperial family. Such statues contained large amounts of bronze, and most were melted down for reuse in weapons and other implements in later times of crisis.


Creator: Roman (Artist)

Period: ca. AD 40 (Julio-Claudian)

Medium: gilt bronze (Metal)

Accession Number: 54.759

Measurements: H: 24 x W: 17 15/16 x D: 7 in. (61 x 45.6 x 17.8 cm)

Geography: Italy (Place of Origin)


Text from: art.thewalters.org/detail/7158/head-of-a-horse/