Handcrafted Neolithic Hembury-Style Bowl – Inspired by Carn Brea, Cornwall
Details
This is a replica of a Neolithic bowl in the Hembury style, based on an example from Carn Brea, Cornwall, dated to around 3300 BCE. The originals were often crafted using gabbroic clay from the Lizard peninsula, and the finest examples are believed to have been made by professional potters, then traded across the British Isles, reaching as far as Wessex.
Hembury ware is notable for its plain surfaces and characteristic trumpet lugs, which flare at the ends—a distinctive design feature of this regional pottery style.
Materials
Smoke-fired terracotta
Dimensions
Height: Approx. 100 mm
Diameter: Approx. 200 mm
Handle Length: Approx. 15 mm
Firing
This vessel has been fired to emulate ancient Neolithic conditions. The original would have been made in an open wood fire, directly in contact with the flames and fuel. This firing method creates natural surface colour variations as the fire leaves its unique imprint on the clay. To improve durability while maintaining authenticity, this pot has been fired to a slightly higher temperature using a specialist process that achieves an authentic Neolithic appearance.
Production
Each piece is entirely hand-built using clays that match the characteristics of original Neolithic materials. The pot is wood-fired and finished with beeswax, a material identified through residue analysis on original vessels.
All hand tools used in its creation—such as those made from stone, wood, shell, bone, and antler—are based on archaeological finds or marks observed on original artefacts.
Please note: You may not receive the exact vessel pictured. Each item is individually handmade, so variations in colour and shape are to be expected.
Health & Safety
Museum-Quality Replica: Made using authentic Roman tools and techniques.
Not food safe: This piece is unglazed and porous, meaning it absorbs liquids and does not meet modern health and safety standards for food use.
For display purposes only: While some enthusiasts use replicas for experimental archaeology, doing so is at your own risk.
Ancient users ensured food safety by heating their pots and contents above 70°C for at least 10 minutes to kill bacteria, with 100°C or higher offering additional protection.
Ordering Information
'Add to Basket' Items: Ready to ship immediately.
'Pre-order' Items: Handmade to order within 90 days (longer for international orders). If your order includes both 'Add to Basket' and 'Pre-order' items, they will be shipped together once all items are ready.
Shipping
All items are sent via second-class postal service as standard.
If you require first-class shipping, please contact us for a custom quote.
Postage Note: All items are carefully packaged to ensure they arrive in perfect condition.
Own a beautifully handcrafted piece of Neolithic Cornwall. Order today and bring a touch of ancient simplicity into your space.
