Roman Bronze Gladiator Mount

CIRCA 1ST-2ND CENTURY A.D.

2 1/2 in. (48 grams, 62 mm).

Modelled in the half-round with hollow reverse and fixing stud; gladiator advancing with a gladius short-sword drawn in right hand, holding a rectangular shield (scutum) and wearing greaves (ocreae); the arm protected by an armoured manica.

Provenance

From the French collection of M Garcia, 1990s.

Literature

Cf. Heynowski, R., Bestimmungsbuch Archaeologie: Fibeln, Munich, 2012, item 3.27.5, for type; Gilbert, F., Gladiateurs, chasseurs et condamné á morte, La Capelle-Marival, 2013, pp.138-139.

Footnotes

The gladiator represented here belongs to the class of the scutarii (wearers of big shields) of the familia of the secutor or provocatores. The secutor was the chronological evolution of samnite gladiators. The title of secutor appears historically only in the imperial era and is closely linked to the title of contraretiarius, the retiarius being his true and only opponent. The secutor's armament consisted of the gladius and a large shield, a short ocrea on the left leg and a padded or armoured sleeve with chiroteca to protect his arm and hand.

CONDITION

VETTING:

TimeLine Auctions follows a vetting process to ensure the authenticity and legality of all items, reinforcing our commitment to integrity and responsible trading. Each antiquity, antique, and coin lot undergoes thorough examination by a vetting committee of at least ten external specialists, professional trade association members, scientists, and archaeologists: Our Vetting Process

AUCTIONS:

TimeLine is a leading auction house specialising in antiquities, ancient art, collectables, natural history, coins, medals, and books. Our auctions offer museums, collectors, historians, and enthusiasts the opportunity to acquire unique and historically significant pieces.

LOT 0139