Ave Caesar! Morituri te salutant

Why it's great

Gladiators salute the emperor with the words 'we who are about to die salute you' before a fight in the Roman arena. Jean-Léon Gérôme painted this in 1859 and helped create how everyone imagines the Colosseum.

🏛️ Part of history

Imperial Rome & Pompeii (14–180) — Gladiators salute the emperor with the words 'we who are about to die salute you' before a fight in the Roman arena.

Where to see it

📍 Location not recordedWe couldn't confirm where it hangs today. Museums sometimes move or lend paintings, so check the museum's website before you travel.

Hang it on your wall

⬇ Hi-res download 3,000 × 1,881 px · 5.6 megapixels · prints up to about 10 × 6 inches at 300 dpi File page & license ↗

Three places to look for a print of this painting, from budget to museum-grade:

💵 Budget Etsy ↗ Posters and simple prints from small sellers, usually the lowest prices. 🖼️ Mid-range Fine Art America ↗ Good printing on paper, canvas or metal, made to order, with framing options. 🏛️ High-end Meisterdrucke ↗ Museum-grade giclée prints on archival paper or canvas, the closest to the real thing.

These links open search results on each shop's own website; we don't sell anything or earn a commission, and print quality varies by seller. Ask a grown-up before you buy anything.

About the artist

Jean-Léon Gérôme

1824–1904 · born in Vesoul · died in 9th arrondissement of Paris

Jean-Léon Gérôme was born in Vesoul, France, and became one of the most successful painters and teachers in Paris. He traveled to Egypt and the Middle East and painted lively scenes from ancient and modern life. He was also a sculptor. His students came from around the world.