How would you like to be remembered? This is a key question for anyone having their portrait created, including the ancient Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius.

This video explores a special kind of portrait in which the person portrayed is shown on horseback. We call this type of image an equestrian portrait. Learn about the meanings associated with equestrian portraiture as part of our series that breaks down key terms in art history, archaeology, and history!

CHAPTERS

0:00 How would you want to be seen?

0:16 The Art of Portraiture

0:36 What is an Equestrian Portrait?

1:05 Ancient Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius on horseback

2:00 Later developments in equestrian portraits: signs of high status and wealth