Rome 2017: (6) The Equestrian Sculpture of Marcus Aurelius

http://en.museicapitolini.org/collezioni/percorsi_per_sale/museo_del_palazzo_dei_conservatori/esedra_di_marco_aurelio/statua_equestre_di_marco_aurelio

The Equestrian Sculpture of Marcus Aurelius reveals that at the time the Romans valued Constantine more than Marcus Aurelius because they believed that this sculpture was actually Constantine. This cultural landscape tells a story of how Marcus Aurelius died. When an equestrian sculpture is created with all four of the hooves of the horses on the ground, it means that the rider died in a natural way. When only two of the horse’s hooves are on the ground, it reveals that the rider died in battle. However, in this sculpture only 3 of the hooves are on the ground and only one hoof is in the air signifying

the rider was injured in battle and then died subsequently. This cultural landscape adequately displays how Marcus Aurelius died. It is also interesting to realize the value that was placed upon this equestrian sculpture, this is shown by the multiple other sculptures that were created by copying this sculpture. This cultural landscape also reveals the value that Romans placed on their leaders who died while fighting for the Republic. The Romans did value battle and knew that in battle is when they preserve the Republic.