Mars Ultor Figurine – Inspired by the Balmuildy Fort Shrine on the Antonine Wall
This museum-quality replica is based on a remarkable sandstone statue of Mars Ultor, discovered in 1914 in the annexe of Balmuildy Roman Fort, part of the Antonine Wall near modern-day Glasgow. Now held in the collection of the Hunterian Museum, this evocative figure is one of the most striking examples of religious sculpture found along the Roman frontier in Scotland.
The original statue was unearthed within a shrine complex, surrounded by altars and cult objects, suggesting it once stood at the very heart of ritual life within the fort. Carved from local sandstone during the Antonine occupation of Scotland, circa AD 142 to 180, the figure represents Mars Ultor – the Avenger. More than a god of war, he embodied divine justice, protection, and vengeance for the Roman legions stationed at the far edge of the empire.
Mars is shown standing tall and powerfully at attention, dressed in full military attire. He wears a crested helmet, a muscle cuirass with pteryges, a short cloak draped across his shoulders, and greaves on his lower legs. He carries both shield and sword, his stance radiating strength, command, and authority. It is evident that the figure was intended to be viewed from the front. The back is only partially carved with minimal detail, suggesting the figure was originally displayed in a niche or alcove, intended for worshippers to approach and address Mars face to face.
The original was carved in stone, but we have reimagined this powerful figure in clay, as a Roman potter might have done. Crafted from sandy earthenware to echo the colour and texture of the original sandstone, the surface retains subtle tool marks and gentle irregularities, giving it the same tactile, provincial quality as Roman shrine objects.
We have used authentic tools and traditional hand-building techniques throughout, staying true to the practices that Roman potters would have recognised. This experimental archaeology approach allows us to reconnect with the past and bring this venerated frontier deity back to life in clay.
Mars Ultor was not simply a god of battle. He represented Rome’s divine right to enforce justice, the strength to protect, and the will to avenge. On the ever-shifting edge of empire, his shrine at Balmuildy would have offered protection, comfort, and spiritual strength to those who served far from home.
This figure is perfect for collectors, re-enactors, museums, or anyone passionate about Roman Britain and the archaeology of the Antonine Wall. A bold symbol of Roman power and belief, reimagined in clay.
'Add to Cart' Items are ready to send straight away. Please be aware that if bought alongside 'Pre-order' Items, your order will be sent when all items are ready.
'Pre-order' Items are made to order, and we will dispatch them as soon as we have handcrafted them for you. This usually takes 90 days, though international orders may take a little longer.
Materials
White earthenware or pipeclay
Dimensions
Approx. 280 mm tall
Approx. 100 mm wide
Approx. 65 mm deep
Production
As with all our Museum Quality Replicas, this figure has been entirely handmade in our Northumberland workshop using natural clay and traditional tools. Each piece is unique, shaped by the hand that made it and the firing process that brings it to life. You may not receive the exact item pictured, but every replica carries the character and variation of Roman originals.
Postage
All items are sent using a second-class postal service
If you wish to have an item sent first-class, please contact us for a quote
Many thanks
Bring the presence of a Roman god into your home, studio, or display with this bold, expressive figure of Mars Ultor – protector of the Empire and patron of the frontier.
