This course is a chronological introduction to the art, architecture, and archaeology of the ancient Roman world from the Republic to the time of Constantine. We will investigate what the Romans themselves considered “art” the be and how to historically contextualize the variety of Roman visual culture, including not only sculpture and architecture, but also fresco painting, coins, gemstones, and urban infrastructure and design. Other topics to be considered include the propagandistic and ideological use of visual culture by Roman emperors, issues of gender and class in private patronage, domestic architecture, funerary art, and the art of the Roman provinces. (Course offered in alternate years.)
Prerequisites: Survey of Western Art recommended, but not required.