Roman gladius pendant

ITEM: Gladius pendant
MATERIAL: Bronze
CULTURE: Roman
PERIOD: 1st - 3rd Century A.D
DIMENSIONS: 26 mm x 4 mm
CONDITION: Good condition
PROVENANCE: Ex Belgian private collection acquired before 1990s

Comes with Certificate of Authenticity and Export Licence. If you are from outside the European Union, we will have to apply for the export licence again for your country, this takes 3 to 5 weeks and has a cost of 5% of the hammer price, this amount will be added to the final invoice.

The Roman gladius was the standard short sword used by Roman legionaries, renowned for its effectiveness in close combat. Typically measuring around 18 to 24 inches (45–60 cm) in length, it featured a straight, double-edged blade designed for thrusting and slashing. The gladius evolved over time, with notable variants including the Gladius Hispaniensis, inspired by Iberian weapons, and later models such as the Mainz and Pompeii types. This weapon symbolized Roman military discipline and conquest, playing a crucial role in Rome’s expansion and dominance.

Beyond its practical use, the gladius also carried significant symbolic and decorative value. Miniature pendants in the shape of a gladius were worn as personal ornaments, often made from bronze, silver, or gold. These pendants were believed to serve protective or talismanic purposes, signifying martial prowess, allegiance to the army, or even invoking divine favor in battle. Some were finely detailed, replicating elements of real swords, including hilts and scabbards, while others were more stylized. Such pendants were likely worn by soldiers, veterans, or individuals wishing to associate themselves with Roman military virtues.

Archaeological finds of gladius-shaped pendants across the Roman world, from Britain to the eastern provinces, suggest they were widespread among different ranks and possibly even civilians. Some examples bear inscriptions or decorative elements linking them to specific legions or deities such as Mars, the god of war. These artifacts provide valuable insights into the personal and symbolic connections Romans had with their weaponry, extending beyond the battlefield into daily life and identity.