Elaborately decorated with storks fighting snakes, this leg protector was part of a pair worn by a thraex-style gladiator in Pompeii.
Photograph by Rémi Bénali
A short, steel-and-bone dagger called a pugio forced fighters to get close to their opponents.
Photograph by Rémi Bénali
Eques gladiators, who began their fights on horseback, carried a bronze shield and spear into battle.
Photograph by Rémi Bénali
Decorated with marine life, this high neck guard was worn on the shoulder by a retiarius, who fought with a net and trident.
Photograph by Rémi Bénali
Forceps were among the medical equipment found at Pompeii’s gladiator school.
Photograph by Rémi Bénali
