Vogler Gladiator Retiarius

A gladiator (from the Latin gladius meaning "sword") was a professional fighter in the Roman Empire who fought in arenas during public displays against other gladiators or animals. The combat between gladiators is referred to as gladiatorial combat.

The original main equipment consisted of a sword, shin guards, helmet, shield, and a metal belt that held the loincloth. Most gladiators also had an arm guard. The types of gladiators named after different peoples likely fought initially in the gear of their respective ethnicity.

The gladiator depicted here is a Retiarius, who fought with a net, arm guard, and trident. The main character in the new gladiator film is portrayed in a similar manner. Made of artificial stone, hand-bronzed and colored.