Roman sculpture of Fundilia from Nemi

Unusually for a a sacred site, this sculpture was dedicated to Fundilia by her former slave Doctus, an actor.This herm sculpture was excavated by Lord Savile, the British Ambassador, at the Temple of Diana, in 1885. Located in the volcanic Albano region, some 16 mile south east of Rome along the Apian Way, this was a renowned healing temple, much frequented by the Roman emperors. Diana had a close affinity with slaves, her feast day on 13th August being the only day slaves were entitled to an annual holiday. Thus, while it is rare for such individuals to be allowed to dedicate sculptures, particularly within such an important sanctuary, it was not out of the question at this temple. This sculpture shows Fundilia as a matron (wife of the head of the family), indicated by the unusual arrangement of her hair in a tutulus. Herms are designed to show off portrait busts and are usually quite plain. This example with the delicate treatment of the garment, feet and originally arms (now sadly missing) shows the affection Doctus, her slave must have had for her.

Unusually for a a sacred site, this sculpture was dedicated to Fundilia by her former slave Doctus, an actor.