Delivered by: Brian Young
This bust is instantly recognisable as Hadrian, as he was the first Roman emperor to have a beard (all the previous emperors were clean shaven). He was very much an admirer of Greek culture and architecture, and this is shown throughout his life in his style and taste.
Hadrian is considered one of the five “good“ emperors as the Roman Empire went through a continued period of prosperity and peace within its boundaries. He was born in Spain, and moved to Italy when his parents died. He was adopted by his uncle Trajan and became emperor in his late 30s, ruling for 21 years.
He arrived in Newcastle in spring of 122 AD and inspected the entire length of wall, no doubt visiting modern day Carlisle as it was a major Roman fort at that time.
Hadrians wall is considered one of the greatest military achievements ever built by the Roman army. This year of 2022 stands as the 1900th year of celebration of its creation and durability for which we remember it for.
The bust, which took Brian Young months to create, is now open for public viewing in Carlisle. You may even notice that Hadrian has creases in his earlobes. Apparently his doctor noted this upon his death and it was wondered why. Now we know it was due to heart disease and was the probable cause of his death.
Brian Young is an author and sculptor who has a passion for Roman history. He wrote “The Eagle has Fallen“ in 2012 and is a member of the Antonine guard. He continues to do talks to groups and public events about Hadrians wall.
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