The Sculptural Portrait Of Faustina The Elder

The sculptural portrait of Faustina the Elder is made of marble and was sculpted between the years of 140 and 160 A.D. She is a Roman piece by an unknown artist, and is housed in the Getty Villa. Faustina is composed of strong lines and shapes to draw the viewer into the vertical dominant composition. Multiple forms break down into triangular shapes that bring the eye up and down the length of the piece, in order to add some movement to her otherwise static pose. Faustina the Elder stands larger than life size, but has naturalistic proportions and details in her body and face. She stands straight and tall and is covered in a sheath dress that wraps her whole body, including her back and head. Her neck, face, feet and hands are the only skin that is exposed. The fabric she …show more content…
Her long straight skirt comes to a rest at the base of the statute and creates a solid base with her toes slightly exceeding the mass. Unlike most male figures from this era, which usually only balance on their two feet due minimal clothing to show off their physiques, the skirts create a strong core that allows for a slightly altered pose without the threat of instability. This makes her strong and grounded, but not weighed down or heavy. She stands with her weight slightly shifted to sit in her right hip, which brings the viewer to look up the figure. Her face appears serene, staring out with a soft gaze. The flowing fabric and tranquil expression create a general feeling of gentleness and calm about her. Faustina the Elder is comprised mainly of triangular shapes the lead the viewer around the statue, further enforcing her vertically