Sarcophago Delgi Sposi

This Etruscan sarcophagus, the “Sarcophago degli Sposi,” depicts a man and a woman lounging on a “banquet bed” in a casual and relaxed fashion. The man is lovingly holding the woman who is dressed in attire, such as a hat and pointed shoes, that would have denoted a person of wealth and aristocracy. This piece of history informs viewers about the life and values of the Etruscan aristocracy. It also shows the importance relaxation and the exhibition of wealth in their culture. Sarcophagi were also surrounded by pottery when excavated. Both the sarcophagus and the pottery illustrate the Etruscans’ civilization and engineering skills. The pottery also shows the Etruscans’ influence from Greece in its style and decoration. This shows that they had connections and contact with other regions through trade.

The Greeks inspired the Etruscans in iconography and ideals which was then passed on to Rome when the Etruscans blended with other groups to become Ancient Rome. The Etruscans have had a cultural and material endurance from the ancient world to today. The Etruscans led to the period of the kings in Rome starting in 753 BC with the founding of Rome under Romulus. This lasted until 509 with the overthrow of the Tarquins after the rape of Lucretia. Lucretia’s subsequent suicide shows the importance of virtue and honor in this society. This event sparked the beginning of the Republic.