Two points are quickly evident from looking at the statue as a whole. This symbolism is clearly evident when we look at the statue from head to toe to see what each component says abut the emperor.
This statue thus shows the official Augustus with an entire catalogue of the symbolism that confirms his divine authority and talents. Augustus recognized that the vast majority of his subjects would never see him in life but could view him in the carefully controlled context of officially sanctioned, produced, and distributed statuary. This statue is but one of many that were erected throughout the Empire during his reign. Augustus, adopted son and heir to Julius Caesar, was a master of propaganda.
