Trajan crowned by Victory

This elegant, frieze-like engraving was probably designed by Marcantonio himself, without the help of any other artist to provide a preparatory drawing. It is based on the relief of the triumph of Emperor Trajan (circa 98-117 AD), which was later incorporated into the Arch of Constantine (312-315 AD). His bold and sculptural style is well suited to render the three-dimensionality of the marble relief, particularly effective in the present brilliant impression. In the scene, Trajan stands at left between an allegory of Rome, represented by a helmeted soldier, and the winged figure of Victory, about to place the laurel wreath on the Emperor's head. To the right, Roman infantry and cavalry are fighting the Dacians outside the city walls of Rome.