Socrates bust

What it is

This marble herm bust shows a bearded, balding older man, identified by Greek inscriptions on its base as Socrates, son of Sophroniscus, of Athens. It is a Roman copy of a Greek original from the late Hellenistic era, held in the Capitoline/Vatican tradition.

Why it matters

Since no image of Socrates was made during his own lifetime by someone who certainly knew him, busts like this one, created centuries later, became the standard image reproduced in books and textbooks ever since. It shows how later generations imagined the philosopher's appearance, based on descriptions rather than direct observation.

Look closer

• Since this bust was made long after Socrates died, what might have shaped the sculptor's idea of what he looked like?
• Why do you think this particular image became the standard one used in textbooks?
• What can and can't a sculpture like this tell us about a real historical person?