This card measures 13 cm by 18 cm and comes with a matching envelope. The inside is left blank, allowing you to write your own personalized message. The back contains a full description of the artefact.
 
You may even wish to frame and hang on your wall! 
 
Early Bronze Roman Gladius
 
Gladii were masterpieces of military design, featuring dual edges for slicing and a pointed tip for precise thrusting. The knobbed hilt ensured a firm grasp, often textured with ridges for enhanced grip, allowing warriors to wield their weapons with confidence and skill.
 
The hilt, known as the capulus, served not only functional purposes but also stood as a canvas for intricate adornments, particularly for officers and dignitaries. These Roman sword hilts were often elaborately decorated, reflecting the status and authority of their bearers.
 
As an artist, I chose this hilt because it encapsulates the essence of the Roman Republic's military might as it began to assert its power over neighboring territories, eventually giving rise to the Roman Empire.
This particular hilt includes a small piece of rope whose date is unknown, though it is likely more modern than the artifact itself. This detail adds an intriguing layer of history and mystery to the piece.
 
Drawing this artifact led me to ponder the rise and fall of past empires and cultures — their moments of glory and their eventual declines. It evokes profound questions about the cyclic nature of history and the fate of our own civilization. Are we, too, destined to follow a similar path? The gladius stands not merely as a weapon but as a poignant reminder of power, history, and the inexorable flow of time.