This enamel on copper painted plate was manufactured by the French artist, Jean Miette (16th century). His work was based on a print by the Italian artist Marcantonio Raimondi (c. 1480–1534?), who, in turn, referenced a sculpture for his artwork. The subject in question, Vitellius, was one of the competitors who fought to the death in the so-called Year of the Four Emperors in the Roman Empire. It all began with the death of Emperor Nero (r. 54-68), whose demise resulted in an unstable power vacuum in Rome. The first claimant to power in the Year of the Four Emperors was Galba (r. 68-69). He rose to power during the revolts against Nero, and after the tyrant’s suicide, Galba was formally accepted as the new emperor with military and senatorial support. Yet, his reforms, spending audits, executions, and unwise political moves produced many enemies. Vitellius, featured on the artwork, was one of these enemies. Backed by the legions on the German front, he revolted against Galba’s rule, but before Vitellius’ rebels could arrive at Rome, Galba was murdered and replaced by his disgruntled ally, Otho (r. 69). Galba’s downfall and Otho’s ascent did not halt the rebellion. A couple of months later, Vitellius’ forces achieved victories in Italy, prompting Otho to take his own life. Vitellius subsequently entered Rome and asserted his claim as the next emperor.
Such was the political and military ascent of Emperor Vitellius (r. 69). He was not remembered well in Roman history; the writer, Suetonius (c. 70-130+), negatively portrayed him as a gluttonous addict of feasting and gambling. The gambling accusation may be hearsay and propaganda, but there likely is more to the insinuations of gluttony, for Vitellius was often portrayed as rather overweight in the ancient coins and sculptures that featured his likeness. Unfortunately for Vitellius, he was not the ultimate victor in the Year of the Four Emperors. A few months after his ascent, a new claimant to imperial power, Vespasian, led legions from the eastern portions of the empire against the new emperor. By October, Vespasian’s forces were seizing control of Italy, and the rebels finally entered Rome in December. Vitellius was killed during the tumult and Emperor Vespasian (r. 69-79) became the new ruler of Rome.
Written by C. Keith Hansley
Sources:
- The Twelve Caesars (Divus Claudius, 15) by Suetonius, translated by Robert Graves and edited by James B. Rives. New York: Penguin Classics, 2007.
- Tacitus, The Histories, translated by Kenneth Wellesley. New York: Penguin Classics, 2009.
- https://www.britannica.com/biography/Galba
- https://www.britannica.com/biography/Aulus-Vitellius
