Grand Tour Italian Marble Bust of Roman Emperor, Vespasian
This antique (19th century) Italian bust depicts Vespasian, Roman emperor from AD 69 to 79. 35 x 25 x 14 in (88.9 x 63.5 x 35.6 cm); There is a loss to the face of the socle where the Vespian name is shown, and a small loss on the front on the figure's garment.
Vespasian, Titus Flavius Caesar Vespasianus Augustus in Latin, was the founder of the Flavian dynasty which ruled the Empire for a quarter century. His reign is best known for financial reforms following the demise of the Julio-Claudian dynasty, the successful campaign against Judaea, and several ambitious construction projects, such as the Colosseum. Upon his death in 79, he was succeeded by his eldest son Titus, thus becoming the first Roman Emperor to be directly succeeded by his own son.
