this post was submitted on 23 Jan 2026
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Explanation: Funny enough, despite Claudius being a major subject of the revival of the Roman artistic tradition of verism ('truthfulness', roughly, though it may be considered a kind of stylized depiction of flaws rather than strict realism) in his busts, he maintained the Imperial tradition of Emperors being depicted with literally godlike bodies. Claudius himself, despite being somewhat tall and able to cut a suitably dignified figure, was also physically disabled, bookish and scholarly, fond of rich meals, and commonly (as most Roman aristocrats) rode in chariots or litters from place to place.
It's probably safe to say he was not actually ripped in godlike fashion. But at least they got his face right!