State Propaganda and Art: Monuments from the Serbian Section of the Limes Region

Abstract

The best representatives of Roman Empire state propaganda are the structures built by the emperors, their portraits, coins issued in their names and works of applied art. In different historical periods, these monuments carried a different political message. The monuments of art from the Serbian section of the Limes and its hinterland clearly show that this region was of exceptional importance, not only for the defence of the Empire but also for the consolidation of the official imperial propaganda. !e large number of porphyry sculptures found in the territory of present day Serbia reveals. The importance of that territory from a strategic-propagandistic point of view. Despite being situated within palatial complexes, these sculptures were erected at exceptionally important strategic locations where the presence of the army and activities connected with its actions were clearly confirmed.