3-083-554 - Heritage Art/Heritage Images

Statue of the Young Nero Wearing a Toga, c50 CE. The draped toga, the most characteristic form of male dress among the Romans, was assumed at the time when a young man came of age and took on adult responsibilities. This statue is thought to represent the young Nero at about fifteen years of age when he was adopted by the emperor Claudius. Nero can be recognized by his wide forehead, small chin, projecting ears, and hair arranged in bangs. In later life as emperor, he developed double chins and a reputation for debauchery, indications of which are not yet evident in this youthful portrait.