Beware the Ides of March, that famous utterance in Shakespeare’s famed story about the assassination of Julius Caesar, continues to haunt us today. In tribute, let’s take a look at 15 pretty cool Rome-inspired designs. I find each to be notably striking in its own way. Et tu?
The legend says that Nero fiddled while Rome burned; many contemporary scholars posit the Roman Emperor was insane. Either way, I love this acrylic design about the event.
Gladiator Versus Lion by Miguel Coimbra
This might be my favorite here, as this highly detailed painting transports you to ancient Rome’s Coliseum and draws you in to the action: a fight to the death between man and beast.
Hail Rome Victorious by Doctor Gurgul
The glowing, burning background and its reflection on the soldier’s armor make this painting come to life.
A creepy yet somehow classy addition to any living room wall. Features the Roman god of the sea, Neptune. Definitely a conversation piece.
I love the contrast of this design, both in the coloring and the theme: a dreamy atmosphere for a blood-hungry horse-riding soldier.
A cool sketch that captures the passion of martyrdom.
A Roman attack on a barbarian is depicted here. Keep in mind that it is a misconception to believe all of Rome was against all of the barbarians; barbarians is the collective name given to the many tribes and cultures that lived outside the Roman Empire and eventually mixed with it.
I liked this design because I think it looks like it could be an ancient postcard or playbill announcing some grand event, such as the eating of gladiators by starved wildlife. Or that Russel Crowe is in town.
A portrait of Gaius Julius Caesar based on sculptures of the Roman leader.
A detailed two-tone painting that expresses the determination of a Roman soldier and suggests the fear opposing forces must have felt when facing the Roman army.
Pegasus, the Colosseum, and more Roman symbols in a colorfully contrasting work of art.
Antony and Cleopatra by Elf-Fin
The famous lovers before tragedy in artwork used by Aristocrat.
The Chariot by paintedonmysoul
The precursor to NASCAR! Who wouldn’t go for an old-fashioned chariot race?
Holy Roman Imperial Eagle by SethNemah
A wicked-cool crest for a domineering empire, don’t you think?
Jesus Christ Hippie at Large by TomPreston
I couldn’t showcase 15 pieces of Rome-inspired artwork without including Jesus. I chose this humorous drawing by Tom Preston. Hey, it’s all in good fun, right?
