Relief: Heads of Roman and Dacian Soldiers and Heads of Horses

myminifactory

Trajan's Column stands tall in Rome, Italy, as a testament to Roman emperor Trajan's triumphant conquests over the Dacians in the wars that raged from 101-102 and 105-106 AD. Constructed under the watchful eye of renowned architect Apollodorus of Damascus at the behest of the Roman Senate, this monumental column is situated within Trajan's Forum, built near the Quirinal Hill to the north of the bustling Roman Forum. Completed in AD 113, the freestanding column boasts a majestic spiral bas relief that brings to life the epic tales of Roman victory over the Dacians. The intricate relief showcases two distinct military campaigns led by Trajan against the Dacians, with scenes of battle taking a backseat to images of soldiers executing ceremonial and construction duties in an orderly fashion. The relief is comprised of various depictions of soldiers and their majestic steeds, carefully crafted to highlight the column's attention to detail. Plaster casts of the relief were meticulously created during the 19th and 20th centuries, revealing a surprising advantage - after a century of acid pollution, they now offer a clearer view of certain details than the original site itself. By displaying these casts in a more accessible manner, students can gain a deeper understanding of the reliefs that adorn Trajan's Column.