New discovery shows spear wrapped in a rope

[Orlirva]

This reminded me that a book about Roman cavalry, was quoting a description of a cavalry exercises. The cavalry (this is pre- stirrup days) first practiced throwing javelins, and then they practiced lance work. The lance was used in the 'normal way' to thrust from the hand or couched, but was also thrown. The description of one way of throwing it was striking:
They whirled it around their heads fast until it started making
a 'Whirring' should (a vibrating hum) and then would release it,
throwing it that way (and it would then accurately hit the
target).
I'm not sure I understand.
>
Are they holding it by the butt, and then using the centrifugal force
to send it off sling-shot style?
Something to do with a rope?
>
Any interpretations out there?
_______
Rick Orli

Hi there,

If he's a cavalryman, perhaps the rope is just part of horse equipment, whip, lasso, whatever.

If it's a depiction (however idealised) of an actual person, rather than a god, perhaps he was a famous rider or horse-breaker?

regards

David Brown