Roman Baby Bottle or Oil Lamp Filler. Tettinae

Details

It has long been thought these unusual vessels were Roman baby bottles, although some have also suggested that they may have been used to fill oil lamps. 

This charming vessel is called a Tettinae or Tettina for multiple vessels.  They were used throughout the Roman Empire as drinking vessels for babies, and chemical analysis of som of thier internal surfaces has shown them to have held milk.  Although they are not common in Britain, they have been found in areas with a strong military presence and, therefore, a large number of Roman citizens. 

Sadly, these bottles are frequently found in the graves of babies, which has led some to suggest that they were unhygienic and may have contributed to the infant's demise.  However, little research has been done in this area what we can assume if that the carers of these infants will have been trying to nurture the children to the best of thier ability and likely placed these vessels in the graves where to accompany and aid them in thier afterlife. 

The custom of placing a drinking vessel in an adult grave is well documented, and these tettina were probably intended to function similarly.

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Materials

Terracotta and red slip finish

Dimensions

Approx. 125 mm high, 100 mm wide as the widest point

Health & Safety

This vessel is a Museum Quality Replica and is not intended for use.  You should under no circumstances use this vessel to feed a baby or ill person (or anyone).  Years of research and technology have gone into producing modern, safe products for caring for babies and the sick.  Use those instead! 

Postage

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