A miniature alabaster portrait of Lucius Verus

As its title suggests, this detailed study analyzes a Roman portrait, in this case that of Lucius Verus, adoptive brother of Emperor Marcus Aurelius. This portrait falls under the Precious Sculptures category, as it is carved in gemstone. Its small size does not prevent it from displaying the characteristic features attributed to this figure. Elisabetta Gagetti details them meticulously, following the method applied to the study of ancient portraiture, of which she provides a perfect example. While commenting on the identity of the figure depicted, Elisabetta Gagetti addresses the distinction between ancient and modern imperial portraits, a complex and debated issue. Elisabetta Gagetti does not fail to dwell on the material used for the portrait in question: alabaster, a noble material whose use has a very long history. In addition, she focuses extensively on Lucius Verus, of whom no scholarly biography exists to date.