Roman Sarcophagus of the Four Seasons
2024 © Maxim Tabachnik
Bust of Commodus as Hercules with TritonsJudgement of Paris on HydriaArtemis of Ephesus StatueTorso of Dionysus Roman SculptureBell Krater with Komos SceneRoman Sarcophagus of the Four SeasonsGilded Bronze Statue of HerculesArchery Contest in Ancient RomeFinding of the She-Wolf FrescoCombat between the Horatii and CuriatiiBoy with Thorn Bronze SculptureNuma Pompilius and the Vestal Cult

Roman Sarcophagus of the Four Seasons

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This mid-3rd century CE Roman marble sarcophagus features the Four Seasons, symbolizing death, resurrection, and life’s cycle. The seasons, depicted with rural elements, flank a double-doorway to the afterlife, emphasizing the link between earthly life and eternity. Such sarcophagi were focal points in tombs for family gatherings and commemorations of the deceased, reflecting hope for a joyful afterlife.