The Equestrian Statue of Marcus Aurelius - Musei Capitolini - Rome Italy

The Equestrian Statue of Marcus Aurelius  - Musei Capitolini - Rome Italy

The bronze statue of  Emperor Marcus Aurelius that stands in the center of the Piazza del Campidoglio is a replica of the original that was moved into the museum in 1981. Still, in every sense it is a beautiful work of art and was hand crafted in much the same manner as the original.

The Equestrian Statue of Marcus Aurelius  - Musei Capitolini - Rome Italy

The statue celebrates Emperor Marcus Aurelius in a pose that signifies strength and conquest and honors the emperor in a magnificent display. 

The Equestrian Statue of Marcus Aurelius  - Musei Capitolini - Rome Italy

The original statue was created around 175AD and probably stood somewhere in the Roman Forum before being moved to the Capitoline Hill. 

The Equestrian Statue of Marcus Aurelius  - Musei Capitolini - Rome Italy

It's sad when you think of how many beautiful bronze statues were melted down in middle ages and did not survive. How fortunate we are that this beautiful work exists today for us to enjoy.