Summary
Highlights
The video introduces a marble sarcophagus depicting the myth of Selene and Endymion, discovered in Ostia in 1825. Sarcophagi in Rome were unique art forms often decorated with mythological or real-life scenes.
The sarcophagus is dedicated to Aria, who passed away at 50 years and 10 months old. It was dedicated by her daughter, Aninia, and includes a portrait of Aria.
Selene, the Greek goddess of the moon, and her brother Helios moved the sun and moon. Selene, known for her beauty, fell in love with Endymion, a handsome young shepherd. Zeus granted Endymion eternal youth and sleep at Selene's request, preserving his beauty. This myth, about a mortal loved by a goddess and granted immortality, was common on sarcophagi, symbolizing hope for an afterlife.
Helios, Selene's brother and god of the sun, also appears on the sarcophagus. Herdsmen and animals, like grazing bulls and horses, are featured, symbolizing guardianship of death. The bucolic scene represents the continuous cycle of nature and life after death.
Another sarcophagus at the Met, also from the Antoine period, depicts the same myth. This sarcophagus has shallow relief techniques, whereas Aria's sarcophagus features deep carvings with strong light and dark effects, possibly created by a running drill. Both works use the Selene and Endymion myth, a popular motif in Roman art.
Viewers are encouraged to visit the Roman and Greek art exhibit at the Met to learn more about the sarcophagus.