Pomp and Perversion

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Description

In this program, Alastair Sooke goes to caves, villas, and the underwater ruins of an emperor's pleasure palace to find examples of passion and regal spectacle in Roman art. Sooke explains the political significance of monuments like the Arch of Titus and statues of emperors as gods, then explores painted celebrations of eroticism. The legacy of Hadrian - his art collection at Tibur Villa, the iconic Antinous Mondragone, the rebuilt Pantheon - is also covered. Includes a discussion of the Great Cameo of France, Tiberius' Villa at Sperlonga, the Prima Porta frescoes, Trajan's Column, the Warren Cup, and more.