Images

Shown here is a detail from the Bayeux Tapestry. Though referred to as a tapestry, it is a linen cloth that features embroidery in eight different-colored wools. 11th century CE.

The scene on this terracotta lamp depicts two tragic actors (perhaps Orestes and Pylades) on a couch; a severed head lies below. Roman period, made in Italy, about 175-225 CE. Transferred from the Wellcome Collection. (The British Museum...

This medallion comes from the center of a painted panel. The woman's hairstyle suggests a date in the reign of the Roman Emperor Augustus. From Pompeii, in modern-day Italy. Roman period, made about 20 BCE - 20 CE. Bequeathed by Sir William...

This rock-crystal cameo depicts a king in an Egyptian style; popular in Italy, where it was probably made. Roman period, 1st century CE. (The British Museum, London).

This panel, once identified as a music lesson, probably depicts a scene of love, set inside a house. A woman playing a kithara (a type of lyre) sits with her lover who gazes adoringly at her. From Pompeii, in modern-day Italy. Roman period...

The bronze drachm of Trajan (r. 98-117 CE) on the left, minted 112-113 CE, represents one of the denominations produced at Alexandria. The half-drachm on the right was minted in 111-112 CE at Alexandria also. (The British Museum, London).

Alex Høgh Andersen as Ivar the Boneless from the TV series Vikings. Photo © The HISTORY Channel

A view of Kaupang in Norway, site of a Viking emporium from c. 780 to c. 950 CE.

An illustration showing the emporium of Viking Kaupang, Norway, in use 780-950 CE.

A silver 50 denari coin of the Vandal king Gelimer (r. 530-534 CE). (Classical Numismatic Group, Inc. http://www.cngcoins.com)