PR 013 Roman Aquilifer 2

PR 013 – Aquilifer 2: Bearer of the Roman Eagle

Following the military reforms of Gaius Marius in the late 2nd century BC, the Roman army underwent a profound transformation that contributed to its gradual professionalisation. During this process, the legionary eagle (Aquila) became established as the principal symbol of each legion's identity and honour.

The eagle, traditionally depicted with outstretched wings and holding the thunderbolts of Jupiter in its talons, was far more than a decorative emblem. It embodied the spirit of the legion, its traditions and the loyalty of its soldiers to Rome.

The soldier entrusted with carrying this sacred standard was known as an Aquilifer. His responsibility was immense, as he had to protect the eagle during marches and, above all, in battle. Its loss was considered one of the greatest disgraces a legion could suffer.

However, the eagle was not the only standard used by the Roman army. Different military units had their own insignia. Cohorts, centuries and other formations used distinctive standards to identify their units and maintain the cohesion of their soldiers.

On certain occasions, a military unit was detached from its legion and sent on a mission far from its usual headquarters. Such detachments frequently used cloth standards known as vexilla. A military detachment of this kind was called a vexillatio.

This figure represents a Roman Aquilifer, bearer of one of the most important insignia in Roman military history: the legionary eagle.

A Roman toy soldier dedicated to one of the most powerful symbols of the Roman army and to the men entrusted with protecting its honour on the battlefield.