Comune di Selargius
  • Italiano
  • English
  • Sardo

The sarcophagus

The sarcophagus dating from the 4th century is an example of late antiquity. It is made of limestone, on the front face it shows three aedicule (small temple-shaped) interspersed with a strigilated decoration and a double frame characterized by floral motifs on the outside and stylized leaves on the inside.

The three aedicule are engraved in low relief: the lateral ones shows two lion protomes and the central one shows the representation of a soldier dressed in pallium (wool coat) and armed with sword. On the side, it represented a two-headed ax and a spear crossed under a decorated rhomboid shield.

The sarcophagus had a double-pitched lid which is now lost. Given the theme of the decorations, some scholars speculate that the burial belonged to a rank military soldier that according to popular tradition would be Lussorio.

Recent studies, however, suggest it is the burial of a venator, the one who in ancient Rome captured and took care of the wild beasts for amphitheater games.

For some time the sarcophagus was in the portico of Saint Giuliano and, today, it is in its original location.

error: Contenuto protetto !!
In alto