Fluted chests, although rare among Roman marble sarcophagi, constitute a notable portion of those discovered in the burial grounds of Hierapolis in Phrygia (Turkey). Often regarded as standardized, affordable products of Docimium workshops or dismissed as modest works of local craftsmen, these sarcophagi reveal a more complex story on closer examination. This study focuses on the fluted sarcophagi of the North Necropolis at Hierapolis, the site’s largest and best-preserved burial ground. Despite their repetitive design, each sarcophagus is uniquely crafted, showcasing distinct variations in moldings, fluting, surface treatment, and decoration. These pieces provide valuable insight into the work of sculptors in a city such as Hierapolis, situated near marble and travertine quarries, where the same artisans appear to have worked on both public and private commissions, utilizing both materials. While standardized production characterized the Roman sarcophagus industry, local quarry-based workshops allowed for considerable customization. Examining these processes offers fresh perspectives on the production and trade of sculpture in ancient Asia Minor, as well as the social and economic dynamics of the Roman sarcophagus industry.
The praise of marble: fluted sarcophagi from Hierapolis of Phrygia
Anna Anguissola
2025-01-01
Abstract
Fluted chests, although rare among Roman marble sarcophagi, constitute a notable portion of those discovered in the burial grounds of Hierapolis in Phrygia (Turkey). Often regarded as standardized, affordable products of Docimium workshops or dismissed as modest works of local craftsmen, these sarcophagi reveal a more complex story on closer examination. This study focuses on the fluted sarcophagi of the North Necropolis at Hierapolis, the site’s largest and best-preserved burial ground. Despite their repetitive design, each sarcophagus is uniquely crafted, showcasing distinct variations in moldings, fluting, surface treatment, and decoration. These pieces provide valuable insight into the work of sculptors in a city such as Hierapolis, situated near marble and travertine quarries, where the same artisans appear to have worked on both public and private commissions, utilizing both materials. While standardized production characterized the Roman sarcophagus industry, local quarry-based workshops allowed for considerable customization. Examining these processes offers fresh perspectives on the production and trade of sculpture in ancient Asia Minor, as well as the social and economic dynamics of the Roman sarcophagus industry.I documenti in IRIS sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.
