Commodus Roman Emperor Bust - After Cavaceppi

The Last of the Antonine Dynasty

This magnificent bust depicts Commodus, Roman Emperor from 180-192 AD, son of the philosopher-emperor Marcus Aurelius and the last member of the illustrious Antonine dynasty. After the antique by the workshop of Bartolomeo Cavaceppi (1719-1799), this piece captures one of Rome's most notorious and controversial emperors.

A Grand Tour Masterpiece

Despite his infamous reputation, Commodus was a popular subject for 18th-century sculptors creating works for members of the European aristocracy on the Grand Tour. This bust, from the renowned workshop of Bartolomeo Cavaceppi—Rome's most celebrated restorer and dealer of classical antiquities—exemplifies the sophisticated taste of Grand Tour collectors.

Prestigious Harewood House Provenance

This bust was acquired by Henry Lascelles, 6th Earl of Harewood (1882-1947), and descended through the family at Harewood House, Yorkshire—one of England's great treasure houses. This distinguished provenance adds significant historical and collecting value to an already exceptional piece.

The Notorious Emperor

Aurelius Commodus Antoninus Augustus assumed the imperial throne at just eighteen upon his father's death. He quickly developed a reputation for megalomania and excess, re-founding Rome as 'Colonia Commodiana' and renaming the months after his various titles. After surviving several assassination attempts, Commodus was finally murdered in a coup organized by the Praetorian Guard, the imperial household, and his favourite concubine.

Exquisite Mixed-Media Finish

This bust is finished as the original, with exceptional attention to detail and materials. The veined and polished marble body provides classical elegance, while the bronze head with worn gilded finish captures the emperor's imperial bearing. Set upon a white marble base with a polished black wax finish, the piece creates a dramatic and sophisticated presentation.

Depicted Facing Dexter

The emperor is depicted facing to dexter (the right), a traditional pose that conveys authority and nobility in classical portraiture.

Handmade in England

Crafted by Sculptured Arts Studio in England, this reproduction honours Cavaceppi's workshop tradition and the Grand Tour aesthetic.

Specifications:

• Dimensions: 71 cm (H) × 49 cm (W) × 25 cm (D)
• Base diameter: 17 cm
• Body: Veined and polished marble
• Head: Bronze with worn gilded finish
• Base: White marble with polished black wax finish
• Handmade in England by Sculptured Arts Studio
• After workshop of Bartolomeo Cavaceppi (1719-1799)
• Depicts Emperor Commodus (180-192 AD)
• Provenance: Harewood House, Yorkshire

A distinguished Grand Tour masterpiece that celebrates Roman imperial history and 18th-century collecting tradition.