In ancient Greece and Rome, military victories were commemorated with a display of captured arms and standards. War trophies could include flags, weapons, personal ornamentation, or an article of clothing. Sometimes the booty would serve a practical purpose such as an improvement in sidearms or a more substantial cloak. Sometimes the spoils served no discernible purpose to the victor at all. This warrior examines a grenadier’s mitre cap – is he fascinated with the elaborate embroidery and fine needle work or is he just trying to figure out its useful function?