Leather boxing gloves uncovered at ancient Roman site
21/02/2018
Among the items they uncovered were two unusual and distinctive pieces of leather. They have similar attributes in terms of style and function, although they are not a matching pair.
Following research into the objects and input from Roman leather experts, it has been determined that they are in fact ancient boxing gloves, probably the only surviving examples from the Roman period.
According to the Vindolanda Charitable Trust, which is in charge of excavating the site, they differ from modern boxing gloves, serving as a protective guard, designed to fit over the knuckles and protect them from impact.
It explained that the larger of the two gloves is cut from a single piece of leather and was folded into a pouch. The extending leather pieces on each side were slotted into one another, forming an inner hole into which a hand could be inserted. It shows signs of extreme wear on the contact edge and has undergone repair, with a tear covered by a circular patch.
The smaller glove is in near perfect condition. It has the same construction but is filled with a tight coil of hard twisted leather.
The two gloves can still fit on a modern hand. The Trust said they have been skilfully made, with the smaller glove retaining the impression of the wearer’s knuckles.
Dr Andrew Birley, CEO and The Vindolanda Trust’s director of excavations said: “I have seen representations of Roman boxing gloves depicted on bronze statues, paintings and sculptures but to have the privilege of finding two real leather examples is exceptionally special.”
The boxing gloves went on display in the museum at Vindolanda on February 20.
Image courtesy of the Vindolanda Charitable Trust.
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