Abstract

This paper examines the funerary inscriptions of Palmyrene portraits, focusing on children. Children are represented in a variety of constellations particularly on loculus reliefs. Children are also depicted on loculus stelai, sarcophagi, banquet reliefs and on a few wall paintings. The majority of the funerary portraits are accompanied with an inscription. These inscriptions emphasize the male family lineage. However, it is not given that children are mentioned in the inscription associated with the object they are portrayed on. The aim of this paper is to explore how children are referred to in these funerary inscriptions. Do the portraits in which children are mentioned differ from the portraits in which they are not mentioned in the inscription? Can it be explained due to chronology, constellation or gender? Furthermore, a discussion on the deliberate lack or choice of including children in these inscriptions will be undertaken. What are these choices an expression of? How does it reflect the status of Palmyrene children? 

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The Palmyra Portrait Project is funded by the Carlsberg Foundation and Aarhus University.

For further information, please contact Rubina Raja (rubina.raja@cas.au.dk).