This engraving by Aegidius Sadeler depicts Livia Drusilla, also known as Julia Augusta, the wife of Emperor Augustus and one of the most influential women in Roman history. The composition portrays her in an elegant pose, adorned with jewelry and draped in luxurious garments, reflecting her stature as a symbol of imperial authority and Roman virtue. Her serene expression emphasizes her role as a stabilizing force in the Roman Empire during Augustus's reign.
The Latin inscription beneath the portrait extols Livia's virtues, celebrating her wisdom, loyalty, and contributions to the Pax Romana. Created between 1586 and 1629, this work exemplifies the artistic and historical focus of the Sadeler family, renowned for their portraits of historical and allegorical figures. Livia’s depiction as a model of Roman womanhood aligns with the propagandistic portrayals of her in antiquity and highlights her enduring legacy in imperial history.