Ara Pacis Augustae

Definition

The Ara Pacis Augustae, or Altar of Augustan Peace, is a monumental altar in Rome dedicated to Pax, the Roman goddess of peace, celebrating the peace established by Emperor Augustus following his victories. This structure symbolizes not only the political stability of the early Roman Empire but also serves as a significant example of Roman artistic expression, highlighting both sculpture and relief work that tells stories about Augustus' reign and the importance of family and prosperity.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Ara Pacis was commissioned by the Roman Senate in 13 BCE to honor Augustus' return to Rome after three years in Hispania and Gaul.
2. The altar is richly adorned with intricate relief sculptures that depict mythological and historical scenes, emphasizing Augustus' lineage and divine connections.
3. Located in the Campus Martius area of Rome, the Ara Pacis was designed to be an open-air structure originally, reflecting the blend of nature and architecture.
4. The altar reflects Augustan ideals such as family values, fertility, and the importance of peace, showcasing how art was used for political propaganda.
5. In the 1930s, Mussolini ordered its excavation and relocation to a modern museum space, highlighting its lasting significance in both ancient and modern contexts.

Review Questions

• How does the design and decoration of the Ara Pacis reflect the values and ideals promoted by Augustus during his reign?
  • The design of the Ara Pacis incorporates rich relief sculptures that symbolize Augustus’ achievements and family values. The depictions of mythological scenes alongside images of Roman citizens promote ideals such as peace, fertility, and familial duty. This artistic approach illustrates how Augustus used the altar not just as a religious site but also as a political statement to reinforce his vision of a prosperous Roman society.
• Discuss how the Ara Pacis connects to the broader context of Roman art and architecture during the early empire.
  • The Ara Pacis is a key example of early imperial Roman art that merges sculpture with architecture to convey powerful messages. Its intricate reliefs represent a shift towards more narrative-driven art forms in Rome, showcasing realistic human expressions and dynamic compositions. This connection highlights a broader trend in early empire art where political propaganda was intertwined with cultural expression, setting a precedent for later monumental works.
• Evaluate the impact of the Ara Pacis on our understanding of Augustan ideology and its implications for future Roman leadership.
  • The Ara Pacis provides significant insights into Augustan ideology by illustrating how Augustus sought to legitimize his rule through divine association and public imagery. By promoting themes of peace and prosperity through this monumental altar, Augustus established a model for future emperors on how to use public monuments as tools for political legitimacy. The altar's lasting legacy informs our understanding of how rulers utilized art to influence public perception and maintain control throughout Roman history.

Related terms

Pax Romana: A long period of relative peace and stability experienced by the Roman Empire during the reign of Augustus, which lasted for over two centuries.

Relief Sculpture: A type of sculpture where figures are carved into a flat background, creating a three-dimensional effect that enhances storytelling in art.

Imperial Cult: The practice of worshiping the emperor as a god, which became prominent in the Roman Empire during and after Augustus' rule, further solidifying his legacy.