Roman pedestal or pillar base, showing two chained captives, most likely about to be sold as slaves, circa 50-100 C.E. From Mainz, Germany, now held in the Landesmuseum in Trier.
The Mainz Pedestals once supported several columns in front of the headquarters of the Roman fortress of Mogontiacum. This Roman city was the capital of Germania Superior, now modern Mainz.
The pedestals are usually dated to the last quarter of the first century. After the Batavian revolt, during which the city was destroyed, the fortress was rebuilt by craftsmen, either slaves or soldiers, who were attached to the Roman legions. The monument may commemorate the recent war or war in general, as all of the images are of soldiers and war booty.
