Arch of Titus

Date

AD 81

Made of?

Pentelic Marble

Located?

Via Sacra - Rome's sacred way through Roman Forum

Why was it built? Function?

To commemorate the 'divine' (dead) Titus and his victory/suppression over Jews at Judea/Jerusalem, to use in a triumphal procession, to commemorate Titus' apotheosis.

Inscription?

'The Senate and the People of Rome, (dedicate this) to the Divine Titus Vespasian Augustus son of divine Vespasian'- SPQR"

Who built the Arch?

Domitian - brother and successor of Titus, son of Vespasian

Name of new dynasty

Flavian

Date of Jewish Rebellion

Approx 66-71AD

Composite columns

Columns that are combined in styles e.g. Corinthian and Ionic - First example of this on Arch.

What are the Spandrels?

Winged goddesses of victory flying/carrying battle trophy.

'Coffered Vault'

The under part of the arch decorated with rosettes and the scene of Titus' apotheosis.

Who carries Titus towards the gods on Apotheosis vault?

An eagle.

Titus in major frieze

He was highly decorated in the chariot, dominates the scene, seen as the 'triumphator'.

Who/what is behind Titus on the major frieze?

Winged victory holding a 'corona triumphalis' (gold crown with oak leaves and jewels) over his head.

Fasces

Lictors carry these as they are a sign of imperium

Who leads the horses on the major Titus frieze?

Two theories; 1. Helmeted Amazonian - Virtus, personification of valour 2. Roma - personification of Rome.

Which two genius' (spirits) are seen on the major Titus frieze?

Genius of Roman people AND Genius of the senate = SPQR behind Titus.

Menorah, shewbread & trumpets of Jericho

Sacred objects from temple of Jerusalem, ritual Jewish festivals = symbols of total victory.

Why did the soldiers wear only tunics and laurel leaves?

Because they had to leave weapons and armoury outside Rome's walls.

How do we know the booty is heavy?

Soldiers have bent knees and carry pillows in their shoulders.

Which figure is portrayed on the keystone? (two theories)

Either female (east) and male (west) OR Roma and Fortuna.

What is the minor frieze on the entablature showing?

Procession of civil and military officials and animals being led to sacrifice - may be part of the triumph.

Where would the triumphal route proceed?

From the Campus Martius, through the Porta Triumphalis, down the Via Sacra and TO the Temple of Jupiter Capitolinus.

What would the Emperor be wearing?

A purple and gold robe/cloak.

When would this procession of triumph be awarded to a General/Emperor?

The General/Emperor (Emperor or imperial family only in Empire). Must have gained victory in person, killed at least 5000 enemy and subdued the region so troops could be in the triumph.

Primary Evidence for the Jewish rebellion

Josephus, ancient Jewish writer.

When would triumphal arches be built?

AFTER the actual processions as a reminder to the people.

What would happen once the triumphal procession reached the Temple of Jupiter?

Bulls and oxens were sacrificed to Jupiter for his blessing and continued protection. This then closed the ceremony.