Leaf of Diptych with Rome c. 6th century

Editor: This ivory carving, "Leaf of Diptych with Rome," is by an unidentified artist, it features a grand female figure, perhaps a goddess, in a classical architectural setting. It has a regal and somewhat detached mood to me. How do you interpret this work? Curator: Well, isn’t she a fascinating dame? To me, this fragment whispers of a Roman Empire keen to portray itself as eternally abundant, almost like a carefully curated Instagram feed of power. The figure, likely Roma, the personification of Rome, holds a cornucopia. What does that say to you? Editor: That Rome is bountiful, prosperous. Curator: Exactly! And isn't it interesting how this piece, designed for private devotion, ended up speaking volumes about public image? Editor: That’s a great point. I never considered the crossover between personal faith and public persona in art like this. Curator: It makes you wonder who commissioned it and what they wanted it to say, doesn't it? Art is never really neutral, is it?