Bronze statuettes were popular across the Roman Empire, usually modelled in the shape of gods, goddesses and animals. Bears were frequently used for entertainment, whether that be to fight gladiators or kill prisoners in the arena. Cassius Dio mentions in Roman History, book LIX, that the emperor Augustus had many bears killed for entertainment for different occasions. One being the celebration of Drusilla birthday. Along with horse racing, a parade and athletes competing, five hundred bears were slain. Bears were also hunted as a sport, symbolising strength and bravery of the hunter.
For more information about the meanings of animals in Roman art, see our relevant blog post: Animal Symbolism in Roman Art.
