The exhibition Rome: Empire, Power, People is a tour through our history of looking at ancient Rome
Melbourne Museum’s major exhibition tells us as much about how we look at this complicated culture as the culture itself.
The Melbourne Museum's exhibition, "Rome: Empire, Power, People," aims to offer a fresh perspective on the ancient city by showcasing artifacts and artworks that are not commonly seen in Australia. Upon entering, visitors are greeted with familiar thematic groupings, such as ambition, life, luxury, the divine, and eternity. However, the exhibition's layout subtly reveals how our understanding of ancient Rome has evolved over time.
The journey begins with the Romans' own stories, such as the founding tale of Romulus and Remus. As we progress, we encounter depictions of Caesar's assassination and the shift from the Roman Republic to imperial rule. This period is presented through the lens of 16th and 18th-century artists, providing a different viewpoint than the Romans themselves.
The emphasis then moves to the grandeur of imperial Rome, with sculptures of emperors and empresses displayed in an Art Deco style. This aesthetic shift highlights the contrast between ancient marble faces and their modern counterparts, drawing attention to both the objects and the viewer's own experience.
Digital reconstructions offer a glimpse into the former glory of Rome's iconic structures, such as the Colosseum and Nero's Golden House. These digital recreations emphasize the pristine nature of the structures, distancing them from the weathered ruins that inspired them. Similarly, other forms of digital reconstruction date back to the 1990s, reflecting the era's fascination with showcasing the ancient city in a highly polished and idealized manner.
As we move through the exhibition, the focus shifts from the grandeur of Rome to the lives of its inhabitants. Objects and artifacts showcase the diversity of Roman society, including families, workers, actors, musicians, and philosophers. This approach highlights the complexities and nuances of ancient Roman life, moving beyond the traditional narrative of power and glory.
The exhibition concludes with a contemplative space that evokes the enduring legacy of ancient Rome. Here, the white curtain and the influence of modern designers, such as Gianfranco Ferré, represent the contemporary interpretations of the ancient world. The exhibition successfully demonstrates that a single perspective is insufficient to fully understand the multifaceted nature of Rome and its enduring impact on our collective imagination.
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