Treasures of Ancient Rome (2012)

Episode Overview

The Romans are often celebrated for their engineering and military prowess, but their contributions to art are equally impressive. In this three-part series, Alastair Sooke challenges the outdated belief that Romans lacked artistic talent. He examines how, during the Republic, they transformed from mere art plunderers and imitators into innovators of a distinctive style known for its raw realism. Roman portraits vividly capture the likenesses of historical figures like Julius Caesar and Cicero. Contemporary artists reveal the clever methods used to create these lifelike works in marble, bronze, and paint. Thanks to innovations like documentary-style marble reliefs and the eruption of Vesuvius, we gain insights into the Roman world. Sooke delves into the extraordinary artistic heritage of Pompeii and illustrates how Augustus, Rome's first emperor, harnessed art's influence to build his empire.