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, commissioned by the Senate in 13 BC to honor Emperor Augustus and celebrate his return from the Gallic campaigns. This structure is significant for its intricate reliefs that depict various scenes of mythology, nature, and the imperial family, illustrating the connection between political power and divine favor.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Ara Pacis was completed in 9 BC and served both a religious purpose as an altar and a political message promoting the peace brought by Augustus.
2. The reliefs on the Ara Pacis include depictions of Augustus's family, emphasizing his role in the restoration of traditional Roman values and the importance of lineage.
3. The altar showcases allegorical figures, such as personifications of the seasons and mythological representations, which symbolize prosperity under Augustus's rule.
4. Located on the Campus Martius, the Ara Pacis originally stood in a grand open space surrounded by lush gardens that reflected themes of fertility and abundance.
5. In modern times, the Ara Pacis has been housed in a museum designed by Richard Meier, which contrasts its ancient form with contemporary architecture.

Review Questions

• How do the relief sculptures on the Ara Pacis represent the relationship between Augustus’s rule and Roman society?
  • The relief sculptures on the Ara Pacis vividly illustrate Augustus's efforts to link his reign with traditional Roman values and social order. Through depictions of his family alongside mythological figures, these artworks convey messages of peace, prosperity, and legitimacy. They show how Augustus aimed to portray himself not only as a ruler but also as a restorer of Rome’s moral fabric, thus reinforcing his position within society.
• In what ways does the Ara Pacis Augustae serve as an example of dynastic portraiture in relation to imperial succession?
  • The Ara Pacis serves as a prime example of dynastic portraiture by prominently featuring members of Augustus's family in its reliefs. These representations underscore the notion of succession within the Julio-Claudian dynasty by illustrating not just Augustus’s accomplishments but also emphasizing the importance of familial lineage for future emperors. This strategic portrayal aims to ensure continuity in leadership by presenting his heirs as worthy successors.
• Evaluate how the artistic choices made in the construction of the Ara Pacis Augustae reflect broader themes of peace and stability during Augustus’s reign.
  • The artistic choices in the construction of the Ara Pacis reflect key themes of peace and stability through detailed allegorical imagery that conveys harmony with nature and prosperity. The inclusion of peaceful scenes from mythology juxtaposed with figures representing Augustus's family promotes an image of a harmonious society under his rule. By emphasizing these themes, the Ara Pacis not only serves as a religious altar but also functions as propaganda, solidifying Augustus's legacy as a bringer of peace after years of civil strife.

Related terms

Pax Romana: A period of relative peace and stability across the Roman Empire during the reign of Augustus, lasting approximately from 27 BC to AD 180.

Imperial Cult: The practice of worshiping the emperor as a god, which was an important aspect of Roman political life and helped legitimize the authority of emperors.

Relief Sculpture: A sculptural technique where figures are carved into a flat background, creating a three-dimensional effect that brings scenes to life on surfaces like altars and walls.