Ava Beaker, Achavanich

Handcrafted Replica Achavanich Beaker

Details

The Achavanich Beaker was discovered during the excavation of a burial cist in 1987. The cist itself was unusual, as it had been dug into the Caithness flagstone bedrock, requiring the movement of approximately 3.4 tonnes of stone to create a burial pit.

Within the cist were the remains of a young woman, nicknamed Ava, along with this beaker, three flint artefacts, and a cattle scapula. Analysis of pollen found in sediment inside the beaker suggests that locally sourced flowers may have been placed within it as part of a burial rite at the time of Ava’s interment.

Pollen analysis has also provided insights into the flora and landscape surrounding the burial site, offering a glimpse into Ava’s final moments before the cist was sealed and she was laid to rest.

The original beaker is coarsely decorated, and based on my years of experience replicating Bronze Age pottery, it appears to have been made in a hurry or by someone more accustomed to making cooking pots rather than a Beaker specialist. I have done my best to stay true to the original character of this pot, resisting the temptation to over-refine it.

Historical Context

Around 2500 BCE, Britain saw the first use of gold and copper, marking the transition from the Neolithic to the Bronze Age. Alongside these new materials came the appearance of pottery beakers. This was a time of immense cultural change, with some studies suggesting a wave of migration from Europe that significantly altered the population of Britain.

In terms of pottery, this period saw a flourishing of creativity, with potters crafting highly decorated beakers that showcased their skills and artistry.

Materials

• Smoke-fired terracotta

Dimensions

• Height: Approx. 190 mm
• Diameter: Approx. 150 mm

Production

As with all my Museum Quality Replicas, this pot has been made entirely by hand, using natural clay and replicas of the tools used by Bronze Age potters. The decoration has been applied using a hand-twisted cord made from natural bark fibres, in this case, lime bast bark—just as the original potter would have done.

Firing Process

To achieve an authentic appearance, this pot has been wood-fired in a way that emulates ancient firing conditions. The original would have been fired in an open wood fire, where the pot was in direct contact with the fuel, creating natural variations in surface colour.

However, the low temperatures of open firings result in weaker pottery, so this beaker has been fired at a slightly higher temperature to strengthen it while still maintaining an authentic finish.

Health & Safety

This is a Museum Quality Replica and not intended for use as a drinking vessel. If you require replica pots suitable for food or beverages, please contact me before purchasing.

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 me for a custom quote.

Own a piece of Bronze Age history with this handcrafted replica Achavanich Beaker. Order today!