The Roman EmpireArt and architecture were meant to serve the glories of the current

The Roman EmpireArt and architecture were meant to serve the glories of the current emperor, while simultaneously establishing direct links with the past.
Questions to Consider:  Who commissioned this structure, and why?  What connection does it have to past emperor(s)?  What is the purpose of art in Rome?  How specifically does this structure achieve that purpose?  What are some distinct characteristics of art and architecture of the Roman Empire in general?