Art in the Roman Empire

Routledge, 1995

In this engaging study, Michael Grant presents some of the most outstanding manifestations of art from all over the enormous territory which was the Roman empire. He has selected items which particularly represent the special achievements and functions of art in the empire. Architecture and portraiture, at which the Romans excelled, are discussed in detail. Michael Grant examines paintings at Pompeii and Herculaneum. He also surveys some of the most significant examples of mosaic, jewellery and silverware. There is an assessment of Greek, Etruscan and purely Roman elements in the construction and style of the art of the empire. This lucid survey encompasses all regions of the empire and shows how much of its artistic work was actually done outside Rome and Italy. It seems certain that a great number of important pieces were produced by people who were not Romans or Italians, though Rome was the powerhouse which instigated their work. Art in the Roman Empire is fully illustrated with detailed captions. It is compelling reading for all those who are interested in the history of the Roman empire, or in the development of art and architecture...