Porphyry Column with Ionic Capital, Pendant
Unknown · Roman imperial period
The second of a pair of porphyry columns, identical in height to its partner at two metres sixty-seven, with the same Ionic capital whose volutes curl outward like rolled scrolls. Here too the capital and the top of the shaft are a separate block joined to the main monolith. Step close and look at the stone: purple porphyry is a volcanic rock studded with small pale crystals of feldspar, and the polish brings out the contrast between the dark ground and the light flecks. Working it required emery and endless patience, which is why intact porphyry columns were prized and reused for centuries.
Made in Italy in the Roman imperial period, the column has survived without breaks. Nothing is recorded about its original setting. Together with its twin it flanks the porphyry statue of a praying woman displayed in this hall, and all three were bought in 1807 with the Borghese collection, when the former riding hall of the Louvre was later arranged to recall the princely galleries of Rome.
Did You Know? Purple porphyry is a volcanic rock from Egypt, and Roman workers polished it with emery because iron tools barely scratched it.
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