Object Description
An antique York stone statue of King Caractacus. Signed Morton, South Street, this over life size statue displays a powerful stance and characterful weathering.
It certainly is a impactful and striking sculpture in expertly carved York stone with profound detail. This statue would make a wonderful centre piece for a period property garden or courtyard looking to instil charm while showcasing important British history.
Caractacus
Caractacus was a British chieftain during the Iron Age and the spearhead of military resistance to Roman invasion in the mid-first century.
He and his brother Togodumnus were the leaders who offered armed resistance to the Roman invaders. He even had his own coinage, representing his confidence and the powerful image he wanted to project.
But the brothers were defeated by the Romans after numerous battles. Togodumnus died, but Caractacus survived and continued his fight.
A battle later broke out in which Caractacus was defeated, but fled and sought sanctuary with Carimandua, Queen of the Brigantes, in modern Yorkshire.
But she betrayed him and handed him into the Romans, who were eager to meet the man who had held out against their power for so long.
The emperor Claudius organised a victory procession, complete with the family of Caractacus in chains.
In this depiction he wears a tunic, carrying a circular shield and axe in his right hand while his left arm is raised. A glimpse of when he appeared before the Emperor Claudius and made a courageous speech which spared him and his companions their lives.
In 1851 the City of London Corporation commissioned two sculptures by John Henry Foley (1818-1874) for Mansion House, London. A statue of Caractacus, similar scale and stance, though carved in white marble was supplied by Foley and formed part of the decoration for the Egyptian hall.
Additional dimensions
Base: 91.5cm x 66 cm