The Imagnifer carries the Imago or image of the emperor. The emperor was worshipped almost like a god. To ensure the Roman army knew who their emperor was and so they could pay homage to him they carried the imago.

As a standard bearer the Imagnifer wore an animal skin over his helmet as a sign of his status. Some believe the Romans thought the wearer of the skin took on the ferocity of the animal whose skin it was, in this case a brown bear.

He carries a sword and a round shield for defence. The Imagnifer would travel with the legion and his place in battle would be to the rear of the legionaries.