The figure, Augustus in Augustus of Primaporta has his right arm stretched upward as well his finger pointing upwards. In addition, his left arm is closely positioned next to his waist while he holds a staff. The posture of his upper body is also straight. These elements make Augustus appear to have authority because these elements combine together in order to give him a sense of strength. This impression causes him to be perceived to have authority. Consequently, he also is perceived to be influential. Further, the figure, Mary in Enthroned Virgin and Child is sitting on a throne. Her posture is straight while she is sitting on the throne. This observation gives the impression that she has a sense of sophistication and a regal appearance. This observation also gives the impression that she has strength. As a result, the figure, Mary is perceived to have authority. Since she is perceived to have authority, she is also perceived to be influential. Ultimately, Augustus of Primaporta and Enthroned Virgin and Child show themes of power and influence through the posture that the main figures of both sculptures …show more content…
In the sculpture, Augustus of Primaporta, a dolphin is present. This dolphin has a connection to the sea. Specifically, the location near the coast of Actium where Augustus conquered in a naval battle against Mark Anthony and Cleopatra in 31 BCE. This connection to one of Augustus's conquests compliments the figure's perceived authority by representing Augustus as a conqueror. In other words, the appearance of the dolphin reveals Augustus's identity as a conqueror. In the sculpture, Enthroned Virgin and Child, the figure, Mary has her feet on top of a dragon while she sits at a throne. This observation indicates that she has defeated God's adversary by giving birth to Christ. God's adversary has been represented as a serpent which has similar characteristics of a dragon. Since Christ was born to save the world, God was able to defeat his enemy through the act of Mary giving birth to his son. Again, the figure, Mary is represented as someone who conquers God's enemy by having her feet placed on top of a dragon. Ultimately, the most prominent figures in both Augustus of Primaporta and Enthroned Virgin and Child are represented as