This was found in a necropolis on the Quirinal hill in Rome. It was dated to around the same period as the traditional founding date of Rome. It's thought the style was mimicking a tree trunk coffin.
The first cup has an inscription supporting Sergius Catalina (known for the Cataline conspiracy) as consul. The second was for Cato to run for tribune of the plebs. Catalina was unsuccessful, Cato was elected.
You can find the full version on my YouTube channel
This was from Egypt but moved to Rome in the Imperial period. It was found in the Gardens of Maecenas which means it was likely used there in a decorative context.
At Lanuvium a tomb was found which dated to circa 475BC. In it was bronze armour and weapons as well as a discus, strigil and flasks.
Lavinium was an important Latin city, 30km southeast of Rome. It was often in conflict with Rome and as it wasn't conquered till 338 BC we might wonder if this individual ever took to the field against it. I saw this when visiting the Baths of Diocletian museum, quite an amazing thing to see up close.
Seen within the Palazzo Massimo these frescoes decorated a corridor and depict various scenes. These feel like snapshots, taken from afar which give a rare window into the more daily occurrences in Roman life. I love the various animals shown.
Was great fun being a guest on the Sistory History podcast and talking about the Roman army. This is the second episode, have a listen and let me know what you think.
You can find the Sistory History podcast on most platforms.