Roman gladiatorial combat originated as a religious event in 310BC. Originally the games were not used to end in the literal death of the participants, but in their symbolic death as defeated athletes.
By 65 BC, Julius Caesar had brought changes by putting 320 gladiators, against one another in a wooden amphitheater constructed specifically for the event. At that point game had changed beyond a religious event and become a ruthless combat.
In general, gladiators were condemned criminals, prisoners of war, or slaves bought for the purpose of gladiatorial combat by a "lanista", or owner of gladiators. In ancient Rome, gladiators could earn the idolized status of a hero, like many modern athletes. Even though a gladiator's social status was barely better than a slave.
Another form of gladiatorial combat involved the "hunting" and slaying of wild animals, call the venatio, or hunt. Exotic wild beasts from the far reaches of the Roman empire were brought to Rome and hunts were held in the morning prior to the afternoon main event of gladiatorial duels.
Based on these event, Hollywood made a movie named "Gladiator" with lead role of Russell Crowe. Who played role of Maximus, a Roman general who is kidnapped, sold into slavery, and then tries to hack his way back to freedom as a gladiator. Set in the year 180 AD, when the Roman Empire was at the peak of its power, this stunning film by Ridley Scott is breathtaking, both in its cinematic scope and its visual details.
The chess set with highly detailed pieces is representing the same Roman favorite game played by Gladiator. Caste in cold resin, each piece expertly and meticulously hand painted. King measures 3.25".
Price is for chessmen only. However, you
can upgrade it to any chess board or storage chess board at nominal cost. Select
from the following options.
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