Head of a Man

This marble head looks quite different from the others in the Saint Louis Art Museum’s collection. Here, shallow carving that lends a sense of softness to the man’s appearance replaces deeply drilled hairstyles and beards. This delicate approach complements the figure’s somber expression and contemplative gaze, which is emphasized by the drilled pupils. Also evident is the most common damage sustained by ancient portraits, loss of the nose, vulnerable due to vandalism or age.