Roman Colander

Handcrafted Replica Roman Colander – Inspired by a Find from Derventio Roman Fort

Details

This handcrafted Roman colander is based on a sherd discovered at Derventio Roman Fort, located in Papcastle, Cumbria. The fort was home to both a military presence and a thriving civilian population, providing a rich archaeological record of daily domestic life in Romano-Britain.

Just as in modern kitchens, colanders were a practical and essential tool in Roman households. One of their known uses was in the production of defrutum, a sweet Roman condiment and preservative. Defrutum was made by boiling down grape pulp and skins left over from winemaking, reducing it by about one-third before being strained through a colander, leaving behind a rich, dark syrup that was then used in a variety of Roman recipes.

Materials

• Earthenware
• Terracotta, reduction fired

Dimensions

• Height: Approx. 110 mm
• Diameter: Approx. 165 mm

Production

Each museum-quality replica is handcrafted in Northumberland by Potted History, inspired by original artefacts. This colander has been wood-fired in an authentic replica of a Roman pottery kiln at Vindolanda Museum, reaching temperatures of 800°C to 1000°C, using the same techniques employed by Roman potters nearly two thousand years ago.

The traditional firing process often results in variations in surface colour and texture, ensuring that each piece is unique—just like the originals. When ordering, you may not receive the exact colander shown in the photographs, and natural variations in colouring will occur.

Health & Safety

This museum-quality replica has been made using authentic Roman tools and techniques. As an unglazed and porous vessel, it will absorb flavours over time, much like original Roman cookware.

• Not food safe: Due to its porous nature, this vessel does not meet modern health and safety standards for food use.
• For display and experimental archaeology purposes only: While some enthusiasts use these replicas for experimental archaeology, doing so is at your own risk.
• The Romans ensured food safety by heating their pots and contents to over 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 piece of ancient Roman culinary history with this beautifully handcrafted replica colander. Order today to bring the past into your home!