This portrait is of a grizzled, experienced 2nd century AD Roman general (perhaps of the time of the Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius) hardened by numerous battles as indicated by the patches of iron on his face and the blood/ever present wounds or scars on his face and hands.
This work took roughly around a year to create, with several changes and new additions made to it. There was a lot of referencing of illustrations and photographs of Roman armour.
A coat of Damar Varnish was applied over the work that served to 'freshen' the image, especially the dark, blue sky and the vibrant cadmium scarlet.