The upper parts of two figures are preserved on the far left section of this sarcophagus front, both facing sharply to right with countenances of surprise or consternation. Mercury, wearing petasos (winged?) and a cloak typically secured with a large pin at right shoulder, is readily identifiable by the top of his messenger's wand (caduceus), carved in shallow relief at mid-field overlying the folds of a mantle that has been raised sail-like aloft. In front of him and to his proper right is a female companion, doubtless a goddess, clothed in chiton and heavy cloak, her long locks of hair drawn back and bound into a chignon, with loose tresses trailing onto her shoulder. Scene bordered above by a narrow projecting moulding; left edge regularly finished. Roughly worked surfaces at back preserve part of curved left end of sarcophagus's interior. Noses of both figures restored, as well as upper lip of the female figure. These figures in all likelihood once formed part of a multi-figured scene of the discovery and seduction of Rhea Silvia by the god Mars, by whom she conceived and gave birth to the twins Romulus and Remus, legendary founders of the city of Rome.