16th Century Marble Bust of Roman Emperor Vitellius – After the Grimani Vitellius, Italian Renaissance Copy

This substantial, hand-carved marble bust of Roman Emperor Vitellius (24–69 C.E.) is a commanding work of sculptural art, likely a 16th-century Italian copy of the famed 2nd-century original known as the “Grimani Vitellius.” Rendered in solid Carrara marble and displayed on a custom iron base , the bust reflects the Renaissance fascination with classical antiquity and the revival of Imperial portraiture. The original Grimani Vitellius was gifted to Cardinal Domenico Grimani in 1523 and later became part of the foundation of the National Archaeological Museum of Venice in 1630. With its weight, presence, and historical lineage, this piece is ideal for collectors and institutions seeking a museum-quality Renaissance reproduction that captures the gravitas and realism of Roman imperial portraiture .

Place of Origin: 16th Century