Emperor Nero at his mother's dissection. Historical illustration from 'Roman de la Rose' by Guillaume de Lorris, showing the Roman emperor Nero (37-68) watching as his mother Agrippina the Elder is dissected. Nero was Emperor of Rome from 54 to 68 AD. His mother was notorious for her ruthless and violent ambition, which led to a power struggle between her and her son. The circumstances surrounding her death are uncertain but it is thought that eventually Nero had her killed. Published circa 1490-1500.