Freedman in Roman Art and Art History

Explore the fascinating world of Roman freedmen with "Freedman in Roman Art and Art History" by Lauren Hackworth Petersen, published by Cambridge University Press in 2011. This insightful study spans 312 pages and delves into the significant role that freed slaves played as patrons of art and architecture in ancient Rome. Petersen critically examines the concept of 'freedman art,' highlighting how it has been shaped by elite-authored texts that often rely on hyperbolic and stereotypical portrayals, including the infamous character Trimalchio from Petronius' Satyricon. This book is essential for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of art history and the contributions of marginalized voices in the Roman era. Discover the untold stories of freedmen and their impact on the cultural landscape of ancient Rome.