The Endymion Sarcophagus
Roman, c.130 AD
Category
Art / Sculpture
Date
circa 250 AD
Materials
Marble
Measurements
1200 x 2390 x 1010 mm
Order this imageCollection
Cliveden Estate, Buckinghamshire
NT 766177
Summary
Marble, The Endymion Sarcophagus, Roman, AD c.230-250. Luna, conducted by Hymenaens, descends from her chariot towards the reclining Endymion, over whom Somnus pours a sleeping potion. Below the horses Tellus, the personification of the Earth, turns towards a seated herdsman. At the two corners personifications of the Four Seasons, in the top left-hand corner the chariot of the Sun, in the top right-hand corner that of the Moon. The front carved panel has been bonded and fixed to a new piece of marble at some stage in the past and the two have been attached to three older pieces of marble (east and west sides and back panel) to create one sarcophagus.
Provenance
Florence in 18th century - Prince Borghese, Rome - aquired from him by 1st Lord Astor, 1893-1900.
Makers and roles
Roman, c.130 AD , sculptor