Recent excavations at Vindolanda, a Roman fort near Hadrian’s Wall in northern England, have unveiled a remarkable discovery. Archaeologists unearthed a beautifully carved sandstone slab depicting a naked horseman, sparking debate about its meaning and purpose.
The intricately detailed relief, measuring just 160mm by 315mm, showcases a nude male figure holding a spear while standing confidently in front of a horse or donkey. According to the Vindolanda Charitable Trust, this find is unlike anything previously encountered at the site.
“The nakedness of the man strongly suggests he is a deity, rather than a simple cavalryman,” explains Marta Alberti, an archaeologist overseeing the Vindolanda excavations. “The spear he carries is a common attribute of Mars, the Roman god of war. However, the two circular features on his head could potentially be interpreted as wings, which are more typically associated with Mercury, the god of travel. Horses and donkeys are also linked to Mercury, who served as a protector of travelers.”
This intriguing combination of iconographic elements has left archaeologists scratching their heads. “This remarkable relief,” Alberti muses, “might depict something entirely new – something we’ve never seen before and may never see again.”
The discovery owes its chance encounter to volunteers Richie Milor and David Goldwater from Newcastle. While meticulously uncovering a flagged floor within a 4th-century building at the fort, they stumbled upon the buried treasure just inches beneath the surface.
“We’re absolutely thrilled and incredibly proud to be a part of this discovery,” exclaims Milor. “It was a truly emotional moment.”
The enigmatic carving is currently on display at the Vindolanda museum’s exhibition of recent finds. Visitors can marvel at this unique piece of Roman history until the end of the 2021 season on July 1st.
Source: Vindolanda Charitable Trust