<P> The Ludovisi Battle sarcophagus or "Great" Ludovisi sarcophagus is an ancient Roman sarcophagus dating to around AD 250--260 from a tomb near the Porta Tiburtina . It is also known as the Via Tiburtina Sarcophagus, though other sarcophagi have been found there . It is known for its densely populated, anti-classical composition of "writhing and highly emotive" Romans and Goths, and is an example of the battle scenes favored in Roman art during the Crisis of the Third Century . Discovered in 1621 and named for its first modern owner, Ludovico Ludovisi, the sarcophagus is now displayed at the Palazzo Altemps in Rome, part of the National Museum of Rome . </P> <P> The sarcophagus is a late outlier in a group of about twenty - five late Roman battle sarcophagi, the others all apparently dating to 170 - 210, made in Rome or in some cases Athens . These derive from Hellenistic monuments from Pergamon in Asia Minor showing Pergamene victories over the Gauls, and were all presumably commissioned for military commanders . The Portonaccio sarcophagus is the best known and most elaborate of the main Antonine group and shows both considerable similarities to the Great Ludovisi sarcophagus, and a considerable contrast in style and mood . </P>

The ludovisi battle sarcophagus reflects what transition in roman cultural funerary customs