Head from the Roman statue of the hero Hercules

The head from a Roman statue represents the hero Hercules, one of the most celebrated figures of classical mythology. This finely carved marble fragment dates to the 2nd century CE, during the height of the Roman Empire, and reflects the skill and artistic sensibilities of Roman sculptors who often drew inspiration from earlier Greek models.
The statue originated from the villa of Emperor Hadrian in Tivoli, Italy, a luxurious residence known for its extensive collection of artworks and its emphasis on classical culture.
The fragment captures Hercules’ characteristic features, possibly including a strong, muscular visage and expressive facial details, highlighting both his heroic strength and the Roman admiration for mythological ideals.
As a remnant of imperial Roman art, this head provides valuable insight into the aesthetic tastes and cultural priorities of Hadrian’s court, as well as the broader Roman engagement with Greek artistic traditions.