Roman Sarcophagus with Strigils, 3rd century

This elegant sarcophagus is related to a typology well attested in the third century. The sober decor of the facade, composed of strigils (instruments used by athletes since the Greek era, to rid their skin of impurities) is limited on each side by a column wearing a stylized Corinthian capital.
The center presents a molded cartel with an inscription on four lines in capital letters:
"D (is) M (anibus)
POMPONIAE-PRO
CVLAE QVAE VIX (it)
AN (nos) XXIII »

"To the male gods of Pomponia Procula who lived 23 years"

The sides of the tank are decorated with an oenochoe (wine jug) and a phiale (shallow cup umbilicus) in relief. These two containers, besides their daily use, are also used during libations or farewell scenes.
These sarcophagi, present in all the great Roman collections since the sixteenth century, have become familiar elements to this city. They are found in museums, but also in squares or in salons and courtyards of palaces, then transformed into fountains. By its evocative power, this timeless piece is a permanent invitation to travel the ancient world. It is possible that the inscription is a later but old addition (from the 15th to the 17th century), constituting an interesting testimony for the history of taste.