Image Gallery
Hadrian (Aged Artistic Facial Reconstruction)
The 21-year reign of Hadrian (r. 117-138 CE) was generally successful, although ancient commentators had a mixed opinion of him. His construction of Hadrian's Wall is controversial, as it did little to secure Rome's northern border but may have helped to project Roman power and control over northern Britain. Hadrian's health declined in later years, and he died of a stroke in 138 CE, at the age of 62. He appointed Antoninus Pius (r. 138-161 CE) as his successor, on the condition that Marcus Aurelius (r. 161-180 CE) would succeed Antoninus Pius.
Pictured alongside the reconstruction are the busts and statuary used as references. These include two marble portraits from the Colossal Head of Hadrian from the Vatican (top left), the Altes Museum bust (right), and the British Museum bust (bottom left).
