Italy: Icon of Constans (323-350), 62nd Roman emperor, from the book Icones imperatorvm romanorvm (Icons of Roman Emperors), Antwerp, c. 1645

Constans I (323-350) was the fourth son of Constantine the Great, youngest brother to Constantine II and Constantius II. When his father died in 337, Constans became co-emperor alongside his brothers, with Constantius' purge of practically the rest of the imperial family ensuring power stayed in their hands.

Constans inherited the central provinces of the Roman Empire in the formal partitioning, but was initially under the guardianship of Constantine II due to his young age. His older brother complained that he had not received the amount of territory that was his due as eldest son, which led to conflict with Constans. When Constans finally came of age, Constantine refused to give up his guardianship, and he eventually invaded Italy in 340. Constans sent his troops to deal with his brother, who was ambushed and killed months later, ensuring that Constans now ruled over two-thirds of the empire.

Constans was known for energetic rule, and some historians claimed he was homosexual and often indulged in great vices and scandalous behaviour with barbarian hostages. Constans became cruel and corrupt in his final years, and his preference for barbarian bodyguards caused the legions to turn against him. General Magnentius declared himself emperor in 350 and assassinated Constans.

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