Greek Tragedy and Comedy Herm Marble Busts

Our pair of very old, herm-form busts representing Comedy and Tragedy after the ancient originals from Hadrian's villa date from the 19th (or possibly 18th century) and measure 28 1/2 and 29 1/2 inches.  Each approximately 18 inches wide and 13 inches deep.

According to the Italian archaeologist, Giovanni Battista Visconti, the original herms were discovered in 1735 by the owner of the Villa, Giuseppe Fede, near the entrance of the Greek Theatre. It was acquired in 1777 by Conte Centini, heir to Conte Fede, for the Vatican. The sculptures were heavily restored in the 18th century by the Italian sculptor Bartolomeo Cavaceppi, the faces having been reworked in depth, and reside in the collection of the Vatican Museums in the Sala Rotonda.

Hadrian (76-138) served as Roman emperor from 117 until his death in 138.

The frieze of each carries inscriptions common to the period of Pope Pius VI (1717-1799), "MUNIFICENTIA PII SEXTII P.M., or "By the Generosity of Pius Sextius P.M." who celebrated the discovery of Hellenistic and Roman ruins and by displaying many artworks in public and ordered each to be inscribed with this message.

There is considerable wear to each, including losses, scratches and stains, plus noticeable restorations particularly to the face of figure on the right.

( Pasquin Pasquin talking statues )