The Machiavellian Face of Roman Politics?

Amid countless idealized sculptures of Roman leadership figures, this bust of a senior male stands out for its raw, unflinching depiction of age and suffering. Remarkably, there is a pronounced asymmetry between the sides of the face which suggests one sided paralysis—perhaps caused by a stroke. It is truly unique.

The artefact is said¹ to depict Lucius Munatius Plancus, the founder of Lugdunum (modern day Lyon), and the contrast between the two sides can be better seen at Lugdunum museum’s website. More specifically, here and here.