Jump to navigation Jump to content Jump to contact Jump to search Jump to search Jump to footer
Kunsthistorisches Museum

My Story – Ancient Female Portraits and Their Afterlife

Showcase EXTRA #8 

17 April to 20 September 2026

Download press kit

Press texts

My Story - Ancient Female Portraits and Their Afterlife
Press release

Press images

A marble bust of a woman with curly hair, depicted wearing a draped garment. The figure's expression is serene, and she has a slight smile. The background is a plain gray, emphasizing the details of the sculpture.

Julia Titi (61–89 CE), daughter of Titus
Head Flavian, late 1st cent. CE; bust 16th century
Marble; tip of nose, bun of braids and bust with socle reworked in the modern era
Kunsthistorisches Museum, Vienna, Collection of Greek and Roman Antiquities
© KHM-Museumsverband

Ancient coin featuring a profile of a woman with elaborate hair and a draped garment, surrounded by Latin inscriptions. The coin has a weathered, bronze appearance, indicative of its historical age.

Coin portrait of Iulia Titi
Dupondius of Titus
Rome, 79/81 CE 
Brass
Kunsthistorisches Museum, Vienna, Coin Cabinet 
© KHM-Museumsverband

A sculpted marble relief showing a figure draped in a toga, standing with a serene expression. The figure's face is partially weathered, but the detailed folds of the garment and hairstyle are visible. The artwork exemplifies classical sculpture, likely from ancient Rome or Greece.

Tomb relief with standing female
Roman-Attic; late 1st / early 2nd cent. CE, Flavian-Trajanic
Marble; left half of image missing, left upper corner restored in modern era
Kunsthistorisches Museum, Vienna, Collection of Greek and Roman Antiquities 
© KHM-Museumsverband

A marble bust of an older woman wearing a traditional headscarf. The sculpture features detailed facial features, including a serious expression, smooth skin texture, and finely carved hair. The piece is predominantly white and shows signs of age, such as slight discoloration.

Matrona with capite velate
Late Republican, c. 40 BCE
Marble; nose restored in modern era
Kunsthistorisches Museum, Vienna, Collection of Greek and Roman Antiquities 
© KHM-Museumsverband

A stone bust of a woman with a braided updo, featuring symmetrical facial features and a neutral expression. The sculpture has an oval face, defined cheekbones, and clear eyes, showcasing craftsmanship typical of ancient art. The background is a plain gray.

Woman with elaborate braids
Trajanic-early Hadrianic, 1st quarter of 2nd cent. / before 130 CE
Marble; back of head, nose and right ear restored in modern era
Kunsthistorisches Museum, Vienna, Collection of Greek and Roman Antiquities 
© KHM-Museumsverband

Marble bust of a young man wearing a draped garment. He has a thoughtful expression, short hair with subtle waves, and is positioned on a rounded pedestal. The background is a neutral gray, emphasizing the details of the sculpture.

Julia Mamaea
Late Severan, 222–235 CE; socle modern
Marble (Göktepe, Turkey); head and bust belong together, socle added 
Kunsthistorisches Museum, Vienna, Collection of Greek and Roman Antiquities 
© KHM-Museumsverband

A marble bust of a young man with long, wavy hair and a serious expression. He is clad in a draped garment, with intricate folds depicted in the fabric. The sculpture features realistic details, including facial structure and hair texture, showcasing classical artistry.

Portrait reworked to Julia Mamaea
Reworked in the late Severan period (225–235 CE) from a Hadrianic portrait (117–138 CE)
Marble (Göktepe, Turkey); unbroken, two areas of hair at the nape of neck added, surface sanded down in the modern era 
Kunsthistorisches Museum, Vienna, Collection of Greek and Roman Antiquities 
© KHM-Museumsverband

A marble sculpture depicting a woman's head. The face has a serene expression, with prominent cheekbones and detailed eyes. She has a stylized hairstyle characterized by deep waves and curls, showcasing artistic craftsmanship. The background is a neutral gray, emphasizing the sculpture's features.

Reworked female portrait (so-called Helena)
Late Flavian-early Trajanic, late 1st / early 2nd cent. CE, reworked in late Constantinian period, second to third quarter of 4th cent.
Marble; cleaned with acid; fractured surface at back
of head
Kunsthistorisches Museum, Vienna, Collection of Greek and Roman Antiquities 
© KHM-Museumsverband

A museum exhibition room featuring glass display cases filled with ancient artifacts, including pottery and sculptures. In the center, a prominent statue stands on a pedestal beneath a blue banner that reads "Vitrine extra." The walls are adorned with informational panels.

Exhibition view
Copyright: KHM-Museumsverband

Inside a museum exhibit, two sculptures are displayed on pedestals. A bust on the left and a small figure on the right are highlighted against a blue backdrop with "Vitrine extra" written above. Informational panels with text provide details about the artworks. The walls are painted maroon.

Exhibition view
Copyright: KHM-Museumsverband

Interior view of an exhibition space featuring various glass display cases highlighting artifacts, including pottery and sculptures. A central statue is showcased against a blue backdrop with the word "Vitrine" and "extra." The walls are painted in a warm red color, enhancing the artistic vibe of the museum.

Exhibition view
Copyright: KHM-Museumsverband

A museum display featuring three sculptures on black pedestals. The central piece is a white bust of a woman with a detailed hairstyle. To the left is a glass case, and to the right is a smaller figure in relief. A large blue banner in the background reads "Vitrine extra.

Exhibition view
Copyright: KHM-Museumsverband

A historic exhibit featuring a large marble bust of a woman with intricate drapery, placed on a pedestal. To its right, a smaller sculpture of a figure in similar attire. The background consists of a dark blue wall with the text "Vitrine | extra" displayed at the top.

Exhibition view
Copyright: KHM-Museumsverband

A close-up of a classical marble statue depicting a woman. She has a detailed curly hairstyle and wears a draped garment. The background is dark, highlighting the intricate features of her face and the texture of the clothing.

Exhibition view
Copyright: KHM-Museumsverband

A close-up view of a marble bust of a young woman, featuring detailed curly hair and a serene facial expression. She is draped in clothing typical of ancient times, with a neutral background that highlights the sculpture's craftsmanship.

Exhibition view
Copyright: KHM-Museumsverband

A museum display featuring several marble busts on pedestals. The busts depict various figures, each accompanied by informational plaques. The setting is well-lit, highlighting the details of the sculptures against a neutral background.

Exhibition view
Copyright: KHM-Museumsverband

A close-up of a classical marble bust depicting a woman with a braided hairstyle, set against a backdrop of other busts in a museum. Labels are visible beside the sculptures, showcasing their historical significance. The lighting highlights the details of the sculptures.

Exhibition view
Copyright: KHM-Museumsverband

A marble bust of a man with an elaborate textured hairstyle resembling a large, rounded crown. He has a neutral expression, wearing a draped garment, and is displayed against a plain backdrop. The sculpture showcases intricate details in both the facial features and the hairstyle.

Exhibition view
Copyright: KHM-Museumsverband

Two marble busts are displayed on pedestals against a plain background. The left bust depicts a male figure with short hair, while the right bust represents a female figure wearing a headscarf. Information plaques are attached to the pedestals.

Exhibition view
Copyright: KHM-Museumsverband

A marble bust depicting an elderly woman with a solemn expression, wearing a flowing headscarf. The sculpture is displayed on a pedestal with a blue information plaque in front of it, providing context about the piece.

Exhibition view
Copyright: KHM-Museumsverband

Videos

Press contact

Mag. Dr. Wolfgang Lamprecht (ext. Leitung)
+43 1 525 24 4021

Mag. Sarah Aistleitner
+43 1 525 24 4025

Tanja Stigler

+43 1 525 24 4019

presse@khm.at

Further Press Releases

A marble bust of a woman with curly hair, depicted wearing a draped garment. The figure's expression is serene, and she has a slight smile. The background is a plain gray, emphasizing the details of the sculpture.
Kunsthistorisches Museum
My Story – Ancient Female Portraits and Their Afterlife

Showcase EXTRA #8 

17 April to 20 September 2026

A peaceful waterfront scene depicts various boats, including gondolas, docked in a calm harbor. Onshore, people walk along a stone surface beside buildings with different architectural styles. The sky is bright with soft clouds, and distant landmarks are visible on the horizon.
Kunsthistorisches Museum
Canaletto & Bellotto

24 March to 6 September 2026

A woman with long dark hair stands confidently with her arms crossed, wearing a black blazer. She is positioned in front of a portrait featuring a historical figure, which is framed in gold. The background is a deep blue.
Kunsthistorisches Museum
Jennifer Sliwka – A New View on to the Old Masters
A young girl with long, wavy hair is seated, wearing a lavish blue and silver dress adorned with intricate details. She holds a decorative fan and a fur piece in her hands. The background features a darkened interior with hints of furniture and decor.
Kunsthistorisches Museum
From Vienna to Rome.

An exhibition of the Kunsthistorisches Museum at Palazzo Cipolla, Rome
6 March to 5 July 2026

Three antique silver coins are displayed on aged parchment paper. One coin features a detailed portrait of a crowned monarch, while the others show various engravings. The background is softly lit, highlighting the coins' intricate designs and historical significance.
Kunsthistorisches Museum
Head & Shoulders. Coins in Fashion

From 11 November 2025

The exhibition at the Coin Cabinet presents nearly two hundred coin portraits from a cultural-historical perspective and showcases fashion and lifestyle from over 2,400 years.

A serene waterfront scene depicting multiple boats docked in a harbor, with buildings lining the shore. People can be seen walking along the water's edge. The sky is light blue with soft clouds, highlighting the tranquility of the setting.
Kunsthistorisches Museum
Exhibtions 2026 – Kunsthistorisches Museum
The image features a gallery with a variety of sculptures and artistic pieces. Prominent are a large, intricately carved marble basin, a standing figure, and abstract forms made of transparent materials. The setting conveys an atmosphere of elegance and artistic expression.
Kunsthistorisches Museum
Oliver Laric. Liminal Beings

6 November 2025 to 15 February 2026

The special exhibition in the Collection of Classical Antiquities at the Kunsthistorisches Museum presents works by Oliver Laric (born in Innsbruck in 1981), one of the most internationally renowned artists working in digital sculpture. 

A group of five elegantly dressed individuals poses in front of a large, classical painting depicting mythological figures. The setting has a dark red wall, highlighting the artwork behind them. The atmosphere is formal and celebratory.
Kunsthistorisches Museum
Michaelina Wautier, Painter – Exhibition opening

29 September 2025

A group of figures in various poses celebrates a scene of revelry. Central is a muscular man seated, adorned in a leopard skin. Surrounding figures include musicians, mythological characters, and women in flowing garments, contributing to the festive atmosphere of the composition.
Kunsthistorisches Museum
Michaelina Wautier, Painter

30 September 2025 to 22 February 2026

Die Abbildung zeigt eine antike griechische Vase mit schwarzer Bemalung. Darauf sind menschliche Figuren und dekorative Motive in Form von Tropfen und Kreisen zu sehen. Am Rand ist eine Inschrift, die den Namen „Nikosorenes” zeigt.
Kunsthistorisches Museum
Incised, Painted, Concealed – Inscriptions on Greek vases

Vitrine EXTRA #7
5 September 2025 until 1 March 2026

A still life featuring a plate with fish, a knife, and scattered nuts on a white tablecloth. Nearby, a glass of dark liquid sits next to a decorative golden glass. Slices of bread are present alongside onions on a wooden surface, creating a rustic dining scene.
Kunsthistorisches Museum
Pieter Claesz: Still Lives

17 June 2025 to 15 March 2026

A well-dressed individual with short gray hair and glasses stands in the foreground. Behind him, a historical scene featuring two men in traditional attire and a third figure seated is partially visible, suggesting a narrative context. The setting appears to be an indoor space with visible artwork.
Exhibitions 2025 KHM-Museumsverband

& Future concept of Jonathan Fine, new Director General

A grand museum building with a prominent dome is set against a colorful sunset sky. In the foreground, neatly trimmed hedges surround a circular fountain with statues, while people stroll along pathways in a landscaped garden.
Kunsthistorisches Museum
Building Project Remastering KHM

KHM presents plans for barrier-free entrance area

Das Bild zeigt ein Porträt mit einer menschlichen Figur, deren Kopf aus einer Vielzahl von Obst und Gemüse besteht. Die Figur trägt eine Kleidung aus Stroh und Getreide, die kunstvoll gestaltet ist. Insgesamt vermittelt das Bild eine Verbindung zur Natur und Fruchtbarkeit.
Kunsthistorisches Museum
Arcimboldo – Bassano – Bruegel. Nature's Time

11 March to 29 June 2025

A young child dressed in an ornate gown stands beside an upholstered chair, with a soft expression. The background features rich, deep colors and intricate patterns, enhancing the regal atmosphere of the portrait. The child’s light-colored hair is adorned with a ribbon.
Kunsthistorisches Museum
Point of View #29: Mengs and Velázquez – The Princess of Naples

17 January to 5 October 2025

A colorful race car is positioned in a dimly lit tunnel, with light visible at the far end. The vehicle features a blue, pink, and orange design, showcasing its sleek shape and racing chassis against a rugged background.
Imperial Carriage Museum
Imperial Speed

High-speed vehicles of the Habsburgs 1814 – 2014

A profile portrait of a young woman with dark hair, wearing a white gown adorned with lace and a blue sash. She has a serene expression and is set against a warm, muted background, emphasizing her features and elegant attire.
Imperial Carriage Museum
Empress Elisabeth of Austria.

The Lady Diana of the 19th Century

An ornate building with a large dome and intricate architecture is situated in a landscaped garden. In the foreground, there is a statue surrounded by greenery. The scene is bathed in warm, natural light, highlighting the architectural details of the structure.
Kunsthistorisches Museum
General Information about the Kunsthistorisches Museum
A lavish, ornate horse-drawn carriage featuring intricate gold detailing and decorative elements. The carriage has large, spoked wheels and a domed roof, with windows adorned with artwork. Its design reflects historical elegance and craftsmanship.
Imperial Carriage Museum
General Information about the Imperial Carriage Museum
A luxurious golden crown adorned with pearls and colorful gemstones. It features an ornate design, with a prominent blue gem at the top and intricate detailing that reflects magnificence. The crown rests on a deep red cushion, enhancing its regal appearance.
Imperial Treasury
General Information about the Imperial Treasury