An ancient Roman artifact depicting the execution of barbarians has been found in England

In Leicester (England), archaeologists have found an artfully decorated ancient Roman bronze key handle. The artifact is a composition depicting the execution of several barbarians: in the lower part there are figures of young men, in the upper part an adult man is tormented by a lion. The object was discovered by the staff of the Archaeological Service of the University of Leicester (ULAS) during the excavation of a rich house built in the II century. The object was preserved and studied in detail at King's College London.

At the time of discovery, the object seemed to have a faceless shape, and only after a superficial cleaning, the archaeologists were able to see the miniature faces. The artifact gives an idea of the death penalty in the Roman Empire, which was practiced on the territory of Britain. Criminals and prisoners of war were taken to the arena, after which the animals were released. The upper figure depicts a typical barbarian with a thick beard and a naked torso. The young men from below symbolize the younger generation of the tribe and its destruction. Thus, the master showed what could happen to those who resisted Rome.

The ruins of the house, among which a key handle was found, are located near the remains of another Roman building – a theater where spectacular performances were held. The lion symbolized security, and in the view of the Romans, its image provided protection for housing. Therefore, the handle to which the key was attached was valued even after it was no longer used for its intended purpose. It was installed vertically in the floor as a keeper of housing.