What is the meaning of the sarcophagus of Junius bassus?

The Sarcophagus of Junius Bassus is a marble Early Christian sarcophagus used for the burial of Junius Bassus, who died in 359. It has been described as “probably the single most famous piece of early Christian relief sculpture.” The sarcophagus was originally placed in or under Old St.

What is the iconography and symbols used on the sarcophagus of Junius bassus?

This iconography is based on images of the seasons in Roman art. In Roman art, the toga was traditionally used as a symbol of high social status. In both its style and iconography, the Junius Bassus Sarcophagus witnesses the adoption of the tradition of Greek and Roman art by Christian artists.

Where was the sarcophagus of Junius bassus discovered?

Sarcophagus of Junius Bassus, marble, 359 C.E. (Treasury of Saint Peter’s Basilica) Please note that due to photography restrictions, the images used in the video above show the plaster cast on display in the Vatican Museum.

Why was the sarcophagus of Junius bassus made?

The sarcophagus of Junius Bassus is a prominent example of early funerary Christian art, completed in 395 CE. It was made specifically for Junius, the son of a consul who followed his father’s footsteps to become prefect of Rome.

Who sculpted Junius Bassus sarcophagus?

EARLY CHRISTIAN SCULPTOR
Sarcophagus of Junius Bassus by EARLY CHRISTIAN SCULPTOR, Italian.

What style is the sarcophagus of Junius bassus?

Carved for a Roman city prefect who was a newly baptized Christian at his death, the sarcophagus of Junius Bassus is not only a magnificent example of “the fine style” of mid-fourth-century sculpture but also a treasury of early Christian iconography clearly indicating the Christianization of Rome — and the …

Why are coffins buried 6 feet under?

(WYTV) – Why do we bury bodies six feet under? The six feet under rule for burial may have come from a plague in London in 1665. The Lord Mayor of London ordered all the “graves shall be at least six-foot deep.” Gravesites reaching six feet helped prevent farmers from accidentally plowing up bodies.

Is the sarcophagus of Junius Bassus a Christian?

As recorded in an inscription on the sarcophagus now in the Vatican collection, Junius Bassus had become a convert to Christianity shortly before his death. The style and iconography of this sarcophagus reflects the transformed status of Christianity. This is most evident in the image at the center of the upper register.

How old was Junius Bassus when he died?

In his role as prefect, Junius Bassus was responsible for the administration of the city of Rome. When Junius Bassus died at the age of 42 in the year 359, a sarcophagus was made for him. As recorded in an inscription on the sarcophagus now in the Vatican collection, Junius Bassus had become a convert to Christianity shortly before his death.

Who is seated on sella curulis sarcophagus of Junius Bassus?

The scene is based on the formula in Roman art of Justitia, illustrated here by a panel made for Marcus Aurelius. Here the emperor is shown seated on the sella curulis dispensing justice to a barbarian figure. On the sarcophagus Pilate is shown seated also on a sella curulis.

What was the role of Junius Bassus in Rome?

Junius Bassus held the position of praefectus urbi for Rome. The office of urban prefect was established in the early period of Rome under the kings. It was a position held by members of the most elite families of Rome. In his role as prefect, Junius Bassus was responsible for the administration of the city of Rome.