Mark Zuckerberg, the tech mogul and co-founder of Facebook, recently made headlines with a unique and grand expression of love for his wife, Priscilla Chan. On August 14, Zuckerberg shared on Instagram an image of his latest art acquisition—a striking, 7-foot-tall statue of Priscilla. The statue, meticulously crafted and placed in their backyard, captures Priscilla mid-stride, draped in a silver holographic robe. The ‘real Priscilla’ stood beneath her larger-than-life likeness, casually sipping her morning coffee.
Zuckerberg's Instagram post, accompanied by the caption "Bringing back the Roman tradition of making sculptures of your wife," immediately drew attention. The gesture supposed to be an ancient homage, sparked curiosity about the tradition he referenced. Let's learn more about this tradition!
The Roman Tradition of 'Pietas'
Zuckerberg’s reference to Roman traditions is rooted in the concept of pietas, a central value in ancient Roman culture. Pietas encompassed a deep sense of duty, loyalty, and devotion, not only to the gods but also to one's country and family. According to Britannica, it represented a respectful and faithful attachment to these entities, especially to one's parents.
While there wasn't a specific Roman custom of erecting statues solely for wives, the act of immortalising family members through statues was a reflection of the broader sentiment of pietas. This tradition began during the reigns of Augustus and Emperor Constantine, where coins often bore the likeness of the Roman Goddess Pietas, symbolising the virtues of familial devotion. These coins sometimes featured women from imperial families, emphasising the importance of their roles within the family and state. In this light, Zuckerberg's statue of Priscilla can be seen as a modern interpretation of this ancient practice.
The Artistic Vision Behind the Statue
The creation of the Priscilla statue was entrusted to Daniel Arsham, a renowned artist and sculptor based in New York. Arsham is known for his distinctive aesthetic, often incorporating shades of teal, similar to the Statue of Liberty, and utilising holographic effects. These elements are evident in the Priscilla statue, which likely uses crystal and volcanic ash as its base materials, aligning with Arsham's signature style.
Arsham's work often explores the intersection of the past, present, and future, making the Priscilla statue a fitting symbol of timeless love. His current exhibition in the Venetian church of Chiesa di Santa Caterina features the Bronze Eroded Split Head, an 8-foot tall installation that also blends teal and holography, further exemplifying his artistic approach.
A Light-Hearted Response
Priscilla Chan, ever the good sport, responded to Zuckerberg's grand gesture with humour. Commenting on his Instagram post, she quipped, "The more of me the better?’’
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