Roman Britain Rare Roman boxing gloves found near Hadrian's Wall Leather bands dating from AD120 are thought to be only known surviving examples The gloves resemble leather padded bands rather than the full-hand versions used in modern boxing. Photograph: The Vindolanda TrustRoman boxing gloves have been discovered near Hadrian’s Wall, thought to be the only known surviving examples, even though the sport was well- documented on Roman wall paintings, mosaics and sculptures. They are among the latest discoveries at a pre-Hadrianic Roman cavalry barrack, which was found last year beneath the fourth-century stone fort of Vindolanda, south of Hadrian’s Wall near Hexham, Northumberland. Other finds include complete swords, which are exceptionally rare, even across the north-west provinces of the Roman empire. Photograph: Historical Picture Archive/Corbis via Getty ImagesThe gloves, resembling leather padded bands rather than the full-hand boxing gloves used today, are similar in style and function, although are not a matching pair.

Source: The Guardian February 19, 2018 17:35 UTC