The Cult of Virtues and the Funerary Relief of Ulpia Epigone (Essay Sample)

The Funerary Relief of Ulpia Epigone
1 Probable Date of this Relief. How is it Determined?
The relief dates back to either the late first or early second century, with a likelihood of the second century. It can be deduced from the art design and representation of the relief that it has borrowed elements from both periods. The portrait head of Epigone has a close resemblance to another art from the court schema. In comparison to Julia Titi, Epigone has similar bow lips heavy-lidded eyes set apart from the pressure of low brows (D'Ambra 388). The two women share close facial similarities depicting they are from close periods. The date of Epigone can be related to Julia, dated from A.D 80-81. Additionally, the hairstyle was worn by Ulpia Epigone also suggests that she came from two periods. It was a popular hairstyle with Flavian and early Trajanic periods. Therefore, it can be determined that she most likely came from the early Trajanic Periods. It can be deduced from her facial structures that she is either in her early thirties or late twenties. Given the close resemblance to Julia Titi, who is around seventeen years of age, Ulpia is most probably from the early second century, considering she is older.
2 What do the physical characteristics of the piece suggest about the probable socio-economic status of the deceased?
Epigone has been illustrated through her beauty and feminine, desirable features. At the same time, the deceased has jewelry. Four bracelets adorn the deceased wrist and upper arm. Pedant is on the neck and a ring on the little finger of the left hand. The custom of wearing a ring on the little finger was nothing more than an advertisement. A social depiction of a more valuable possession under seal at home. Additionally, the heart-shaped pendant is also descriptive of love or protection from illness and diseases. The bracelets were most probably close-fitting precious jewels. In complete, Epigone is described through a wealthy status. This can be supported by the idea that she has been sculpted while bearing a ‘slave’ referenced name. All as an indication of wealth and influence in society.
3 The deceased is represented in a “mythological portrait.” Who is the mythological character (goddess) to whom the deceased is likened, and how? Compare the relief to the Capitoline Venus (see my slide). What are the similarities and differences? Why is this real woman represented in the guise of a goddess? What message is being conveyed?
Epigone is depicted based on a mythological standpoint. She is detailed in partial nudity, with the right hand covering the private region. In similarity to Capitoline Venus, who is illustrated in nudity. She has covered her private region, although with the left hand. Most of the nude illustrations of Venus detail their left hand covering the private regions. Epigone’s drapery reveals parts of her nudity representing feminine form and sexual appeal. Thus, in association with Capitoline, she is described as fertile, healthy, and desirable. Epigone, represented with association to goddess Venus, provides the message that she was both a representation of love and beauty. Through her elaborate beauty and jewels, the deceased depicts the idea that she was beautiful, loved, and idolized.