Beeldhouwwerk Pompeius c. 1860 - 1900

This photograph depicts an undated sculpture of Pompey, a Roman general whose image has traversed time. Here, Pompey’s outstretched hand dominates. It’s a gesture of command, reminiscent of the Roman emperors whose statues dotted their vast empire. Yet, this very gesture echoes through epochs, appearing in Renaissance paintings of Christ or triumphant leaders. The motif reminds us of the ancient Roman salute, but this symbol has been appropriated by varied ideologies across centuries. How the viewer interprets it becomes entangled with the subconscious currents of collective memory. This outstretched arm invites us to consider the complex choreography of power, not only of its historical performance, but also its psychological effect. Like a phantom limb, it evokes a past both present and lost.