Ara Pacis

Definition

The Ara Pacis, or Altar of Peace, is an ancient Roman monument dedicated to Pax, the Roman goddess of peace. Commissioned by the Roman Senate in 13 BCE to honor Emperor Augustus’s return to Rome after his campaigns in Spain and Gaul, it symbolizes the peace and prosperity established during his reign. This monument is not just a testament to Augustus's achievements but also reflects broader cultural influences and artistic practices in Rome.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Ara Pacis was consecrated on January 30, 9 BCE, and was designed by the architect and sculptor Mark Vipsanius Agrippa.
2. Its elaborate reliefs depict various mythological and historical figures, emphasizing Augustus’s connection to the divine and his role as a bringer of peace.
3. The monument features panels that showcase allegorical scenes, such as the Tellus relief, which symbolizes abundance and fertility.
4. The structure was rediscovered in the early 20th century and has undergone extensive restoration, highlighting its significance in Roman history and art.
5. The Ara Pacis is located in a modern museum in Rome, showcasing its importance as a cultural and historical artifact.

Review Questions

• How does the Ara Pacis reflect the political ideology of Augustus during his reign?
  • The Ara Pacis serves as a powerful symbol of Augustus's political ideology by celebrating the peace he brought to Rome after years of civil strife. Its inscriptions and reliefs communicate messages of stability, prosperity, and divine favor, effectively positioning Augustus as a heroic figure who restored order to the state. This connection between art and politics illustrates how Augustus used monuments like the Ara Pacis as tools of propaganda to solidify his authority and legacy.
• In what ways does Etruscan and Greek influence manifest in the artistic style of the Ara Pacis?
  • The artistic style of the Ara Pacis showcases both Etruscan and Greek influences through its use of relief sculpture and intricate depictions of human figures. The detailed carving techniques reflect Greek artistry, while the focus on commemorative themes aligns with Etruscan traditions. Additionally, elements like drapery and naturalism in the figures highlight how Roman artists integrated these influences into their own style, leading to a unique blend that shaped Roman art.
• Evaluate the significance of the Ara Pacis in understanding Roman cultural identity during the time of Augustus.
  • The Ara Pacis is significant for understanding Roman cultural identity because it encapsulates the values of peace, prosperity, and connection to divinity that were central to Augustus's vision for Rome. By depicting scenes that celebrate nature's bounty and divine favor, it reinforces the notion of a harmonious society under Augustus's rule. Moreover, as a public monument, it reflects how art was used to construct collective identity among Romans, promoting shared values while also asserting Augustus's legitimacy as a ruler committed to restoring the greatness of Rome.

Related terms

Pax Romana: A period of relative peace and stability across the Roman Empire, lasting approximately from 27 BCE to 180 CE, initiated under Augustus.

Relief Sculpture: A sculptural technique where the figures project from a background, widely used in the Ara Pacis to convey narratives and themes of peace.

Roman Propaganda: The use of art and architecture to promote the ideals and accomplishments of rulers, exemplified by the imagery and inscriptions on the Ara Pacis.