Roman chryselephantine statues, like their Greek counterparts, were sculptures made from a combination of gold and ivory on a wooden core . The term “chryselephantine” itself is derived from the Greek words “chrysos” (gold) and “elephantinos” (ivory). These statues were highly prized in the ancient world for their opulence and craftsmanship.
I first discovered this technique when visiting the Palazzo Massimo in Rome. There is a beautiful fragment from a statue that was discovered in the Roman ruins near my home in 1994, it was then sold on the black market and ended up in London. The Carabinieri in Italy, spent many years investigating and tracking parts of the statue, eventually becoming successful in 2003. The face on display is impressive, for me, the details of the teeth alone make this fragment a national treasure.
Here are some key points about Roman chryselephantine statues if you would like to learn more about this ancient artform:
Materials: Chryselephantine statues combined two main materials:
- Gold: Gold was used for various elements of the statue, such as the drapery, accessories, and other decorative details. It added a rich, golden hue to the sculpture, symbolizing wealth and luxury.
- Ivory: Ivory, typically sourced from elephant tusks, was used for the flesh or body of the figure. It allowed for intricate carving and the creation of lifelike features.
Subjects: Chryselephantine statues depicted a wide range of subjects, including gods and goddesses, emperors, deified individuals, and mythological figures. These statues often celebrated divine or imperial power.
Iconic Examples – Greek not Roman..
- The Statue of Zeus at Olympia: Created by the Greek sculptor Phidias, this monumental chryselephantine statue depicted the king of the gods, Zeus, and stood in the Temple of Zeus at Olympia. It was considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
- Athena Parthenos: Another masterpiece by Phidias, this statue of the goddess Athena was housed in the Parthenon on the Athenian Acropolis. It was also chryselephantine and depicted Athena in her full armor, holding a shield and a Nike (winged victory) figure
Religious and Ritual Use: Many chryselephantine statues had religious significance and were placed in temples or other sacred spaces. They were used in various rituals and ceremonies, particularly in the worship of deities.
Craftsmanship: Creating chryselephantine statues required exceptional skill and expertise. Sculptors had to meticulously carve the ivory to achieve naturalistic details in the figure’s form and expression. The addition of gold elements required intricate metalwork. Artisans would carefully carve the ivory to create the lifelike features of the statue, such as the face, hands, and exposed skin. Gold leaf or thin sheets of gold were applied to the wooden core to create the garments, jewellery, and other embellishments.
Iconography: The choice of subject matter and the style of chryselephantine statues were often influenced by the prevailing artistic and religious trends of the time. Some statues depicted emperors as divine figures, while others celebrated specific gods or myths.
Size and Scale: Chryselephantine statues varied in size, from small figurines to life-sized or larger-than-life sculptures. Larger statues were often placed in prominent locations, such as temples or public spaces.
Survival: While some chryselephantine statues have survived to the present day, many have been lost to time, war, or decay. Their delicate materials and the passage of centuries have made preservation a challenge.
Legacy: Chryselephantine statues exemplify the opulence and artistic achievements of the Roman Empire. They are considered some of the most luxurious and valuable artworks of their time. Today, surviving examples are highly prized by museums and collectors.
Overall, Roman chryselephantine statues represent a fusion of artistic talent, wealth, and religious devotion in the ancient world. They offer valuable insights into the artistry and culture of the Roman Empire, particularly during its period of imperial splendour.
Overall, Roman chryselephantine statues represent a fusion of artistic talent, wealth, and religious devotion in the ancient world. They offer valuable insights into the artistry and culture of the Roman Empire, particularly during its period of imperial splendour.
