A form of backhanded "neoclassicsism" recalling when Rome conquered the Cisalpine Gauls and raiding neighboring Germanic tribes. This style of art stuff became more popular as the 1800s wound down into various eclectic and idiosyncratic forms of Gothic, Pre-Raphaelite and Classical revival aesthetic movements. Early 19th century motifs were much more refined and lighter in theme. But this is a reaction to that enduring trend.
Also all bets are off when dealing with high Victorian artistic elements. Roman sandals, could just as easily be accompanied by Tunisian scimitars, "Viking" horns on the battle helmet and a Pictish set of tattoos. They threw in the kitchen sink once Gothic revival had established that the romantic "look" trumped historical accuracy.
But
I dig it.
