Fresco depicting gladiators in Pompeii

A vivid fresco depicting a gladiator standing victorious as his wounded opponent gushes blood was discovered in the ancient Roman city of Pompeii in 2019. A 'murmillo' holds aloft his shield in his left hand, as he grips his short sword in the right. On the ground next to him lies the shield of the defeated 'thraex', who has suffered wounds and is bleeding. The thraex is gesturing with his hand, possibly asking for mercy.