Marcus Aurelius on horseback. Bronze patina. 38×45 cm.

Description

Sculpture of Marcus Aurelius on horseback, a reproduction made of molded marble (marble dust with resins). Patinas applied to imitate aged bronze.

Measurements:

• Width: 38 cm. Depth: 20 cm. Height: 45 cm.
• Approximate weight: 7.8 kg.

Reproduction inspired by the statue of Marcus Aurelius on horseback, currently exhibited in the Capitoline Museums in Rome.

Dated between 161-180 AD, the original bronze sculpture was located during the Middle Ages in the Basilica of St. John Lateran until Pope Paul III placed it on the Capitoline Hill in 1538. Michelangelo was commissioned to redesign the Capitoline Square (Piazza del Campidoglio), making the equestrian statue of Marcus Aurelius the central axis of the square, where it remained until its relocation to the Capitoline Museums, where it is currently preserved.

The Roman emperor Marcus Aurelius is known as one of the “Five Good Emperors.” Marcus Aurelius (121 AD – 180 AD), the philosopher-emperor, ruled the Roman Empire alongside co-emperor Lucius Verus from 161 to 180 AD. His legacy transcends his role as emperor, as he is also remembered as one of the most notable Stoic philosophers. His best-known work, “Meditations,” is a journal in which he reflects his thoughts, focused on the constant pursuit of virtue and wisdom and their application in daily life.

Marcus Aurelius faced numerous significant challenges during his reign, including military conflicts, epidemics, and internal crises. Amid these difficulties, he managed to maintain the empire’s stability despite both external and internal threats. Through Stoic philosophy, he was able to endure the pressures of governance, following the Stoic principles that advocate for calmly accepting adversity and cultivating virtues such as generosity, justice, self-discipline, and moderation.

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.