South Side of Altar

South Side of Altar

View of  the upper south panel of the Ara Pacis.  This seems to be a procession of dignitaries processing to the dedication of the altar.  Note near the center of the procession is a child holding his father's hand.  The father, tall head–covered (like a priest), facing to the left of the image is the son–in–law of Augustus, Marcus Agrippa.  The woman on our right of the child is Agrippa's wife, Livia/Julia, daughter of Augustus, and the child is Gaius Caesar their offspring—and intended heir of Augustus.

On the left side of the image there is a partial figure with a sharp vertical break.  This figure is that of Augustus himself!

Below the meander design are beautiful flora designs attached to vines, all indicating abundance, luxury, and peace—that had been inaugurated by Augustus (r. 27 B.C to A.D. 14; = Pax Romana).