Caracalla

LL 168

Information

The Roman Emperor Caracalla ruled from 211 to 217 CE. He is known from his short beard and scowling expression. His breastplate shows the terrifying snake-haired Gorgon, Medusa, in the centre. Medusa's gaze turned people to stone and her image was believed to protect the Emperor. The bust may have once been owned by Cardinal Fesch, an uncle of Napoleon Bonaparte.