“PC sarcophagus” fragments. A large number of fragments (about 100) of an Asiatic sarcophagus were found in the Pactolus bed near the sector PC, in the summers of 1959 and 1960. The architectural fragments are identical with those on the celebrated sarcophagus of Claudia Antonia Sabina (Cat. 243 Fig. 422) and must have been made in the same workshop. Numerous fragments of hands, legs and drapery were found, as well as a few head fragments. Of special note are two beautiful pieces, the portrait head of a young woman and the head of a horse from the couch on the lid. These, as well as some architectural fragments, are described below (Cat. 180, Cat. 181, Cat. 182 and Cat. 183 Figs. 328-332).

The head of a horse is turned at a strong angle to its r., with the neck thus bent sharply. His protruding eyes look upwards. The l. eye has only a slightly hollowed pupil; the r. one is somewhat more emphatic. Drilling was used in ears, nostrils, and muzzle. All show a very full, fleshy treatment, particularly the flaring nostrils and corners of the mouth. Bone structure and musculature are emphasized. The locks are done in linear flat chisel work, intentionally leaving a texture somewhat rougher than the excellent effect of the superlatively abraded finish of the neck and face. J.K. Anderson and M.A. Littauer, who have kindly considered the matter, favor the identification as a horse rather than a mule.

The head is from the fulcrum of the couch on the lid of an Asiatic sarcophagus. Brilliantly worked, it seems to be a close copy of a Hellenistic prototype, perhaps in bronze. It was found near the many fragments of the PC sarcophagus, and there is good reason to think by the type and style that the horse head is part of the same. On analogy with the sarcophagus of Claudia Antonia Sabina (Cat. 243 Fig. 422) this piece can be dated to the late years of the 2nd C. A.D.

Fine-grained, slightly yellowish marble. Parian?

Broken part way down neck. Most of ears broken away. Small fragment of molding from the sarcophagus kline still attached at neck. Imperfectly cleaned, with much incrustation still attached at neck.