Gravestone of a Boy in the Getty Villa, July 2008

Gravestone of a Boy
Roman, made in Greece, 1-50 AD
Marble

Inventory # 73.AA.114

Various features of this gravestone indicate that it was carved when Greece was part of the Roman Empire. The hairstyles and clothing of the figures as well as the style of the architectural elements identify the work as Roman. But the scene of loved ones clasping hands is derived from Greek gravestones of the Classical period (480-323 BC). The boy remains united with his mother through the gesture.

Text from the Getty Villa museum label.