Marcus Aurelius of Ephesus. Bust. 86 cm.

Description

Reproduction of the bust of Marcus Aurelius of Ephesus, made of molded marble (marble powder bonded with resin). Finished with the application of aging patinas based on natural earth, giving it the appearance and texture of an ancient marble sculpture.

Measurements: Height 86 cm. Width: 56 cm. Depth 35 cm.

Approximate weight: 35 kg.

This is a reproduction of a bust of Marcus Aurelius of Ephesus, faithfully recreated with the original, only the base has been reconstructed for decorative purposes. The original statue dates back to the 2nd century B.C. and is located in the Museum of Ephesus on the Aegean Coast, Turkey.

The Roman emperor Marcus Aurelius (121 AD – 180 AD) is known as one of the “Five Good Emperors.” He left us a masterful work of philosophical reflections on self-knowledge and good governance: the “Meditations,” written directly during his military campaigns.

Marcus Aurelius, the philosopher-emperor, ruled the Roman Empire alongside co-emperor Lucius Verus from 161 to 180 AD. His legacy transcends his role as an emperor, as he is also remembered as one of the most notable Stoic philosophers. His best-known work, “Meditations,” is a journal reflecting his thoughts, focused on the constant pursuit of virtue and wisdom and their practical application in everyday life.

Marcus Aurelius faced numerous significant challenges during his reign, including military conflicts, epidemics, and internal crises. Amidst difficulties, he was able to maintain the stability of the empire, despite threats both external and internal. Thanks to Stoic philosophy, he could endure the pressures of governance, following Stoic principles that urge acceptance of adversities with serenity and cultivation of virtues such as generosity and justice, self-discipline, and moderation.

This philosopher-emperor is still admired today for his personal consistency, integrity, and moral and ethical standards in a critical period of Roman history. Marcus Aurelius has come down to us as an example of a leader capable of exercising political power from a practical philosophical perspective, based on personal reflection that leads to a constant pursuit of inner perfection and the practice of virtues.

“In your actions, do not delay. In your conversations, do not confuse. In your thoughts, do not become unfocused. In your soul, do not be passive, nor aggressive. And let your life not be just about business.” (Marcus Aurelius)

“Our life is what our thoughts create.” (Marcus Aurelius)

Read more about the Stoic philosophers on our blog: Stoic Philosophers, a model of Strength and Joy