Octavian Augustus was the founder of the Roman Empire and its very first emperor, ruling from 27 BC until his death in AD 14. Originally named Gaius Octavius, he was the great-nephew and adopted son of Julius Caesar. Features: Octavian Augustus was physically short and frail, but possessed a remarkably handsome and graceful appearance that he carefully maintained throughout his life. Roman historian Suetonius described his facial features as calm and serene, with bright, piercing eyes and a nose that hooked slightly at the top. His hair was yellowish and slightly curly, and his eyebrows met above his nose. build: “body and limbs were so beautifully proportioned that one did not realize how small a man he was, unless someone tall stood close to him.” -- [Suetonius]. Behavior: wise, moderate, and approachable.