Latin poet Luxorius wrote a tribute of sorts to a popular, dark-skinned venator or beast-fighter in 6th century Carthage. A translation of the poem can be found here, translated by Art Beck. Below is Luxorious's praise of Olympius, who was an Egyptian:
The reason you’re so popular is that we’re grateful
for the show, Olympius, animal fighter. And
your name fits your gnarled body –– with the neck,
shoulders, biceps and back of a Hercules.
Astonishing, quick, daring, impetuous and ready for anything;
that you’re black doesn’t hurt your looks a bit.
Nature created, dark, precious ebony. Royal purple
glimmers deep within the noble murex.
Blue-black violets blossom in the soft grass.
Dark jewels invest us with a special grace.
The dusky trunk of the terrible elephant thrills us.
Black incense and pepper from the Indies civilize
us. Need I say more? Scarred by your countless
wins, you’re as beautiful in the people’s love
as those elegant fops are hateful.
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