Question

One of the major developments during the Roman Empire was portraiture. Though the idea of creating a portrait of an actual person wasn’t new, it’s use grew. What is the MOST likely reason for this increase in the use of portraiture?

(1 point)


Death masks became more popular during this time.

Portraits of leaders were new to this time period.

There was a greater emphasis on the individual in Roman society.

Portrait busts were easier to construct during this time period.

Answer 1

There was a greater emphasis on the individual in Roman society.

Romans practiced verism and ancestor cults, used realistic portraits to honor family, assert social status, and promote political authority, so portraiture became much more common.