Cleveland Museum of Art

Tasciovanus Stater: Wreath (obverse); Horse and Armed Rider (reverse)

Date

c. 20 BCE–10 CE

Medium

gold

Culture

England, Catuvellauni

Department

Medieval Art

Institution

Cleveland Museum of Art

The clarity of the obverse legend sets this piece beyond all doubt. The meaning of RICON, which on some other specimens occurs as RICONI or RIGON, is uncertain. Some authorities believe it to be the Celtic form of REX or king. A high quality or workmanship, the horse has a clear, three-dimensional appearance. The warrior's cuirass is a point of interest as it may show mail being used. The warrior's shield is on his outstretched left arm, trailing behind the horse as the rider turns in his saddle, probably encouraging his army. The name Tasciovanos is only known through coin and appears to have become king of the Catuvellauni around 20 BC.

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