Object number2008.1

Funerary Relief of Attia Rufilla

DateMid 1st c

Artist Roman (Roman, NA)

CultureRoman

MediumMarble

Dimensions28 x 14 x 6 in. (71.12 x 35.56 x 15.24 cm)

Credit LineGift of Joseph Coplin, class of 1988, and Robin Beningson in memory of Renee D. Beningson, and purchase, Francis Woolsey and Helen Silkman Bronson, class of 1924, Fund

On View

On view

PeriodMid 1st c

Classification(s)

ProvenanceJames Edwards, New York, 1963; Piero Tozzi Gallery, New York; Private Collector, New York; Antiquarium, Ltd., New York; Joseph Coplin and Robin Beningson, New York; Frances Lehman Loeb Art Center, Poughkeepsie, New York, 2008

Vassar Exhibitions

To the Divine Shades: Inscribed Epitaphs from Ancient Rome from the Permanent Collection

Label TextThis funerary monument with portrait bust is inscribed “Attiae M(arci) f(iliae) Rufillae,” or “Of Attia Rufilla, daughter of Marcus.” Surrounding the portrait is a stylized temple composed of columns and a roof with sculptures placed at the corners or apex of a pediment called, in classical architecture, akorteria. Attia Rufilla presumably belonged to a wealthy family with the means to commission this personalized, ornate monument. Given mention of her father’s name, she was likely not married and the simplicity of the marker suggests it belonged to a niche within a larger family tomb.

Object information is a work in progress and may be updated as new research findings emerge. To help improve this record, please email loebcollections@vassar.edu