Gladiators

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Gladiators, a poignant scene from the second half of the 1st century BCE, captured in exquisite detail within a Cumae tomb, now preserved for eternity at the Musée du Cinquantenaire in Brussels, Belgium. This captivating terracotta depiction showcases two gladiators locked in a fierce struggle, their fates about to be decided. The triumphant warrior on the left, clad in a tunic and adorned with a majestic crest and double-crested helmet, stands tall, his shield aloft as he claims victory over his defeated foe. Meanwhile, the vanquished gladiator, donning the distinctive garb of a Thracian, stands helpless to the right, his arm raised behind his back in a gesture of supplication. As the crowd watches with bated breath, their thumbs raised high or low will determine the fate of the defeated warrior. Will they shout "stans missus!" and spare his life, or will they call for him to be slaughtered by crying "jugula!" and turning their thumb downwards? The outcome hangs precariously in the balance, as if time itself has stood still. A delicate whisper of paint remains on this ancient relic, a testament to the skillful craftsmanship of its long-lost creator. For more captivating tales from the past, join me on Twitter at @GeoffreyMarchal and stay up-to-date with the latest discoveries and insights!