Roman relief from a marble tomb, 201-300 CE
- Made:
- 201-300 CE in Roman Empire
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Science Museum Group Collection
© The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum
Fragment of a roman relief from a marble sarcophagus showing a winged cherub, part of Asklepios (Asclepius; Latin: Aesculapius) and a serpent, possibly a doctor's sarcophagus, 3rd century AD
Roman tombs and graves were often carved with symbols, giving an indication of the person’s life or profession whilst on earth. Asklepios (Asclepius; Latin: Aesculapius), the Greco-Roman god of medicine and healing is carved accompanied by a snake. This would suggest that the occupant of the tomb was a physician.
Asklepios was often pictured with a snake who was his messenger. Snakes were also believed to have healing powers.
Details
- Category:
- Classical & Medieval Medicine
- Collection:
- Sir Henry Wellcome's Museum Collection
- Object Number:
- A79648
- Materials:
- marble
- Measurements:
-
overall: 80 mm x 740 mm x 482 mm,
- type:
- relief
- credit:
- Antichita Belle Arti
