Free Essays,College Free Essays,Free College Essays at Anti Essays

The Portrait Bust of Anna Cornificia Faustina was created by an anonymous Roman artist in 141 A.D. In viewing Anna, there are many details that can be looked into and elaborated on. One of the most important factors in examining a sculpture would be the appearance. The appearance of the sculpture helps describe which materials were used, the texture, and the overall visual interpretation of the work of art. It is also important to know what is represented and depicted in The Portrait Bust. A way to discuss the representation of The Portrait Bust can be displayed by describing the sculptures emotion. Another important characteristic is the overall condition of the work, any signs of deterioration, breakage, repairs, or restoration points. Included in the visual analysis of The Portrait Bust will be observations about the sculptures appearance, representation, and overall condition, which will aid in a thorough examination of the work.
The Portrait Bust is made from a royal-yellow colored marble. The consistent color and grain of the stone throughout the sculpture indicates that the head was carved from a single block of marble. It has an incredibly smooth granular surface, which conveys a slight dullness. When viewing the sculpture at close range, there is a noticeable roughness in some areas due to breakage and deterioration. When screening The Portrait Bust, it is visible that lights and shadows help define the form. The presence of natural and museum provided light over the more faintly sculpted surfaces enhances the sculpture and presents the illusion of real skin and hair.
Even though the sculpture is made of marble, the hair takes on a very lifelike appearance which illustrates the realism demanded by the Romans. It is extremely intricate and detail oriented when viewing the upper half of the bust, especially the hair. The eyes also make the sculpture appear very realistic. The eyes are known as the window to the soul and true...