Along with Cautes, Cautopates is a torch-bearersdepicted attending the god Mithras in the icons of the ancient Roman cult of Mithraism, known as Tauroctony. Cautes holds his torch raised up, and Cautopates holds his torch pointed downward. The two torch-bearers are often interpreted as symbols of light, one for the rising, the other for the setting sun. Cautopates could also represent death, while Cautes might represent new life.

This lower half of a limestone relief from outside the Temple of Mithras depicts a figure holding a lighted torch pointed downwards, a symbol of darkness and death. Originally it would have stood within the temple, with its companion figure, Cautes, who holds an upright torch symbolising light and life. 

This object is part of "Scan The World". Scan the World is a non-profit initiative introduced by MyMiniFactory, through which we are creating a digital archive of fully 3D printable sculptures, artworks and landmarks from across the globe for the public to access for free. Scan the World is an open source, community effort, if you have interesting items around you and would like to contribute, email stw@myminifactory.com to find out how you can help.