dec 5, 358 - Sarcophagus of Junius Bassus

Description:

Rome, 395 (mid 4th century)

Sarcophagus of Junius Bassus who was the prefect of Rome. An inscription tells us he was baptized shortly before his death. Clearly Biblical scenes on the front show moments of testing or sacrifice (Abraham and Isaac, arrests of Peter, Paul, and Jesus). Christ appears to be very youthful. He is shown in imperial postures of ad locutio and ad ventus. The sides of the sarcophagus, however, show putti cavorting while harvesting grapes and leading a bull to sacrifice. This suggests perhaps syncretism or commercial production practices.

relevant terms: ad locutio, ad ventus, typology,

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