Keizer Vespasianus c. 1782 - 1784

"Keizer Vespasianus" is a ceramic relief sculpture by the Dutch artist Loosdrecht, dating back to the late 18th century. The piece depicts the Roman Emperor Vespasian in profile, wearing a laurel wreath and with his hair tied back. The sculpture, which is currently on display in the Rijksmuseum, exemplifies the Neoclassical style, which was popular in the 18th century, and focuses on the Roman past and its ideals of reason and order. The sculpture's simple, realistic form and its focus on a historical figure embody this artistic movement. The white ceramic material adds to the piece's classical aesthetic, reminiscent of ancient Greek and Roman sculptures.