Arch Septimius Severus
The Arch of Septimius Severus, was erected in 203. It is a triumphal arch, dedicated by the senate to the emperor Septimius and his sons, caracalla and geta. It celebrated the victory over Parthians and Adibents. It can be seen from the grandiose dedication that appears on both sides of the attic.
The three-arched arch was originally surmounted by a bronze quadriga.
The Arch of Septimius Severus is characterised by rich decorations. The style of these rather worn reliefs is narrative in character. The narrative is schematic and effective and includes, in addition to victories, deities, a frieze with the emperor's triumph, Roman soldiers with prisoners and four panels depicting Septimius Severus' campaigns in Mesopotamia.
The sculpted scenes were probably created from the paintings that recounted the various events of the war. The paintings were sent to the senate from Mesopotamia to prepare for the triumph.
The exterior of the Arch of Septimius Severus is strongly chiaroscuro and covered in marble. It is built in opus quadratum. Apparently, it is the oldest preserved arch in Rome that has free-standing columns and not leaning against the piers.
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