Roman Gladiator Helmet Pencil Topper - Pewter

Product Description: This Roman Gladiator Helmet pencil topper is made from lead-free pewter and is a 3D model of a Thracian Helmet. It is supplied on a 13cm black wooden pencil with the inscription "AVE CAESAR MORITURI TE SALUTAMUS. Hail Caesar! We, who are about to die, salute you." printed on it in silver.

Information: The helmet is based on a Thracian gladiator’s helmet found at Pompeii in the gladiatorial barracks. It would have been used during the parades preceding the games in the amphitheatre at Pompeii, just before Vesuvius erupted in 79 AD. It was originally made in the First half of the 1st century AD.

The latin quote Ave Caesar, morituri te salutamus was reportedly first used by captives and criminals fated to die fighting during a mock naval encounter in the presence of the Emperor Claudius in 52 AD. It became one of the best known and most often cited of Roman customs. It was recognised as a customary salute of gladiators to the emperor.