Vedius Pollio

Publius Vedius Pollio was a Roman of equestrian rank and a friend of Emperor Augustus. Augustus appointed him to a position of authority in the province of Asia. In later life, Pollio became known for luxurious tastes and for cruelty to slaves, including an alleged practice of having displeasing slaves fed to lampreys. Ancient discussions of ethics and Augustus's public role often cited an incident involving a broken crystal cup and the later demolition of Pollio's Roman mansion.

Status

Roman of equestrian rank

Connection to Augustus

Friend of Emperor Augustus

Provincial appointment

Held a position of authority in the province of Asia