  Based on the assumption that economic complexity is characterised by the
interactions of economic agents (who) constantly change their actions and
strategies in response to the outcome they mutually create, this paper presents
how network models can be used a proxies for the mapping, quantification and
analysis of Roman economic complexity. Network analysis provides tools to
visualise and analyse the inherent complexity of various types of data and
their combination (archaeological, geographical, textual) or even of a single
piece of evidence. Equally, the relational approach invites to a structural and
quantitative comparison between periods, regions and the economic systems of
polities and empires. An increasing number of proxies of this kind may allow us
to capture the trajectories of economic complexity beyond metaphors.
