Some key features of Roman funerary steles include:
1. Inscriptions: Almost all Roman funerary steles have inscriptions that include the name of the deceased, their age, and sometimes their occupation or achievements.
2. Images: Some steles feature images of the deceased, often in a portrait style, or scenes from their life.
3. Symbolism: Many Roman funerary steles include symbolic imagery, such as a wreath representing victory over death, a butterfly symbolizing the soul, or an anchor representing hope.
4. Epitaphs: Some steles include epitaphs, which are brief statements or poems that commemorate the deceased.
5. Parentalia: Roman funerary steles were often part of the annual Parentalia festival, in which families honored their ancestors by visiting their tombs and making offerings.
Publication date: