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Bust of a Woman
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Gift of J. Paul Getty

Unknown
Roman, about A.D. 130
Marble
Object: H: 16 15/16 x W: 16 9/16 x D (head): 9 7/16 in.
70.AA.100

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J. Paul Getty was especially entranced by this portrait, long believed to represent Sabina (A.D. 83-137), wife of the emperor Hadrian. Distinctive features such as the protruding ears make this identification doubtful. Her hair is fastened in a loose bun typically worn by Greek goddesses. This gives the anonymous sitter the appearance of Classical statuary, a conceit enhanced by the diadem.