About this piece
back to topAn antique York stone cast statue of King Caractacus after the antique by John Henry Foley. 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 fundamental 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.
John Henry Foley (1818-1874)
John Henry Foley was a skilled and excellent draughtsman who studied at the Royal Dublin Society and The Royal Academy.
In 1851 the City of London Corporation commissioned two sculptures from Mansion House, London.
Foley’s original marble sculpture of Caractacus formed part of the decoration for the Egyptian hall.
Additional dimensions
Base: 91.5cm x 66cm
