From: Arch of Titus, Rome
RA Collection: Art
On free display in The Dorfman Architecture Court
The cast reproduces the upper moulding of the architrave (directly below the figural frieze) of the Arch of Titus. It is a cyma reversa moulding decorated by lobed acanthus leaves which alternate with recessive oval leaves. This decoration was popular in the Flavian period in Rome.
It was acquired by the Royal Academy from Thomas Lawrence whose collection was sold on 10 May 1830. The Arch was of particular interest in the early 19th century because the neo-classical architects Raffaele Stern and Giuseppe Valadier undertook major restoration between 1817-18 and 1823-24.
198 mm x 430 mm x 131 mm, Weight: 6 kg