The Altar of Augustan Peace, also known as the Ara Pacis Augustae, is a monumental altar dedicated to the Roman goddess of peace, Pax, and celebrates the establishment of peace in the Roman Empire during the reign of Augustus. This structure not only embodies the Augustan building program aimed at beautifying Rome and promoting imperial propaganda but also features intricate mythological sculpture groups that depict significant figures and events from Roman mythology, emphasizing Augustus' role in restoring peace and stability to Rome.
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The Altar was commissioned by Augustus in 13 BCE and completed in 9 BCE, marking a significant moment in Roman history as it celebrated the Pax Romana.
The altar is adorned with reliefs that depict both historical events and mythological scenes, illustrating Augustus' lineage and divine favor.
The structure is located in the Campus Martius area of Rome, which was an important site for public gatherings and celebrations.
The Ara Pacis incorporates architectural elements from both Greek and Roman styles, showcasing Augustus' desire to connect his reign with Rome's glorious past.
Restoration efforts in the 20th century brought the altar back to public view, allowing modern audiences to appreciate its artistic and historical significance.
Review Questions
How does the Altar of Augustan Peace reflect the goals of Augustus' building program?
The Altar of Augustan Peace exemplifies Augustus' building program by serving both an artistic and political purpose. It was designed to enhance Rome's urban landscape while simultaneously promoting the emperor's achievements in establishing peace across the empire. The careful integration of intricate relief sculptures highlights significant events and figures that affirm Augustus' authority, thereby reinforcing his image as a leader who restored order and prosperity.
In what ways do the mythological sculpture groups on the Altar of Augustan Peace serve to elevate Augustus’ status?
The mythological sculpture groups on the Altar are strategically designed to elevate Augustus’ status by associating him with divine figures and legendary heroes. These depictions create a narrative that positions Augustus as a pivotal figure in Roman history who was destined to bring about peace. By linking himself to gods like Pax and portraying scenes that emphasize his lineage, Augustus reinforces his legitimacy as ruler and cultivates an image of divinely sanctioned power.
Evaluate the impact of the Altar of Augustan Peace on contemporary understanding of Augustus’ reign and its significance for future generations.
The Altar of Augustan Peace significantly impacts contemporary understanding of Augustus' reign by providing insight into his methods of consolidating power through art and architecture. Its reliefs tell a story that resonates beyond its time, illustrating how propaganda was effectively employed to shape public perception. For future generations, this altar serves not only as an artistic masterpiece but also as a powerful symbol of how rulers can use cultural heritage to reinforce their authority and legacy within society.
Related terms
Pax Romana: A long period of relative peace and stability experienced by the Roman Empire during the reign of Augustus and his successors.
Propaganda: Information, especially biased or misleading, used to promote a particular political cause or point of view, which in this case was utilized by Augustus to legitimize his power.
Relief Sculpture: A type of sculpture where figures are carved into a background surface, as seen in the decorative panels of the Altar of Augustan Peace.