Unusual cavalry standard?

[Anonymous]

Jasper wrote "Cavalry standardbearers are pretty rare in the archaeological record. Other examples are Carminius Ingenuus, the unknown Draconarius and Oclatius." Definitely- although I'd also add to the list the Chesters standardbearer with a triple crested helmet from Ala II Asturum (see another thread). So- three of the surviving cavalry standard bearers all wear very ornate helmets of one description or another- Flavinus of Ala Gallorum Petriana with his tall plumes, Genialis of Ala I Thracum with his full face helmet, and the unnamed Chesters signifer of Ala II Asturum with his triple crested helmet. Makes sense to have an ornate and recognisable - and impressive- figure to rally round and follow. And also to impress the barbarians you are charging so that they run before impact!<br>
Btw, Cirencester do have an online photo ordering service - which I'm trying out to get a larger copy so that I can study the tombstone more carefully- I'll let you know how it goes.<br>
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Regards,<br>
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Paulus<br>
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