Roman Mortarium / Mortaria

Here’s your refined and structured listing for the Handcrafted Replica Roman Mortarium:

Handcrafted Replica Roman Mortarium – Inspired by Finds from Britain and Gaul

Details

Food is more than just sustenance—it connects us to home, family, and tradition. The Romans understood this deeply, bringing their culinary culture with them to Britain, including a wide array of cooking utensils and tools.

One such essential tool was the mortarium, used to grind herbs and spices against the coarse quartz grit embedded into the bowl's surface—functioning as an ancient food processor.

Initially, these vessels were imported from East Gaul, but as Roman life in Britain developed, local potters began producing their own versions. Notable production sites have been identified in the Nene Valley (2nd–4th century AD) and near Crambeck, Yorkshire (2nd century AD).

This museum-quality replica is based on Form 43, a style widely used across Roman Britain.

Materials

• Earthenware terracotta with quartz grit

Dimensions

• Height: Approx. 80 mm
• Diameter: Approx. 255 mm

Production

Each piece is handcrafted in Northumberland by Potted History, following the techniques of ancient Roman potters.

This replica Roman mortarium has been fired at 800°C–1000°C to authentically replicate Roman firing conditions. This process results in natural variations in surface colour and texture, just as seen in original Roman pottery, ensuring each piece is unique.

Health & Safety

This museum-quality replica has been made using authentic Roman tools and techniques.

• 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.
• Ancient food safety: The Romans ensured food safety by heating their pots and contents to over 70°C for at least 10 minutes, with 100°C or higher offering additional protection.
• Preparation tip: Ancient cooks would grind down the internal surface with a pestle before first use to remove any loose grit and avoid dental emergencies!

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 Roman culinary history with this beautifully handcrafted mortarium. Order today and bring the art of ancient cooking into your collection!