Grave Stele (Relief)
Unknown Artist
c. 50 BCE
Medium
marble
Dimensions
73.6 × 42.5 cm
Classification
Sculpture
Department
Greek and Roman Art
Museum
Cleveland Museum of Art
Credit
Gift of James E. and Elizabeth J. Ferrell
Accession Number
2005.52
Rights
Public Domain
About this artwork
The multiple figures, inscription, use of perspective, and architectural frame distinguish this ambitious relief as one of the most important of its type. The Greek inscription on the base reads, “To Sbardia, also named Tate, Eumelos, son of Aphrodisios, her father, [set this up].” The deceased is shown seated on an elaborate chair. A servant girl holding a fan suggests Sbardia’s high social standing. At the bottom right corner, a hen perches on an upturned basket, a symbol of “the good life.” T...