Grand Tour Oil Portrait on Canvas Painting of "Sergius Galba", a Roman Emperor, After Titian 19th Century

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A Large Oil on Canvas Painting of "Sergius Galba", A Roman Emperor, After Titian

Mid 19th century, circa 1860.

Portrait … Read more A Large Oil on Canvas Painting of "Sergius Galba", A Roman Emperor, After Titian

Mid 19th century, circa 1860.

Portrait of Sergius Galba, almost three-quarter length, his face in profile, in blue draped armour. He also has a leather belt about his waist, a staff in his left hand and laurel leaves about his head.

Copied from Aegidius Sadeler's engravings of Titian's series of paintings of the twelve Caesars, destroyed by fire in Madrid in 1734. The Titians were bought by Charles I in the 1620s as part of the Mantuan Collection, and formed part of his prized Cabinet de Titian. Other copies of the paintings/engravings exist. The Bolsover set replaces 'Caligula and Tiberius Caesar with two Empresses'.

Galba, (born Servius Sulpicius Galba; 24 December 3 BC – 15 January AD 69) was a Roman emperor who ruled from AD 68 to 69. He was the first emperor in the Year of the Four Emperors and assumed the position following emperor Nero's suicide.

Born into a wealthy family, Galba held at various times the positions of praetor, consul, and governor to the provinces of Aquitania, Upper Germany, and Africa during the first half of the first century AD. He retired from his positions during the latter part of Claudius' reign (with the advent of Agrippina the Younger) but Nero later granted him the governorship of Hispania. Taking advantage of the defeat of Vindex's rebellion and Nero's suicide, he became emperor with the support of the Praetorian Guard.

Galba's physical weakness and general apathy led to him being selected-over by favorites. Unable to gain popularity with the people or maintain the support of the Praetorian Guard, Galba was murdered by Otho, who became emperor in his place.

A really nice quality and large painting, with original frame.

Frame size: 58" high x 48" wide
Canvas size: 54" high x 44" wide

In good condition, no damages noted. Ready to hang. See photos for full condition. See less