The Ceramic Object, Stonehenge

Ceramic Object from Stonehenge – Inspired by Neolithic Ritual Contexts

Details

This handcrafted museum quality replica draws inspiration from a truly enigmatic object, one whose very moniker fuels the mystery behind this precious ancient artefact. Referred to simply as the Ceramic Object, it was found among cremated remains in Aubrey Hole 29 at Stonehenge, one of Britain’s most iconic prehistoric monuments nestled within Wiltshire’s tapestry of verdant hills. The original was unearthed during early twentieth century excavations by William Hawley, and later re-examined by researchers as part of the Stonehenge Riverside Project.

The object was discovered within a disturbed deposit of cremated bone, suggesting it may have formed part of a funerary context or acted as a grave good, placed among the dead as part of prehistoric ritual practice. It leaves us with enough evidence to inspire a host of questions, yet not enough to answer many of the most pressing ones, including what this object was used for. Although we do have our own theories.

When we were fortunate enough to examine the original artefact, a few tantalising clues became apparent. The object appears to have two distinct sides. One side, which we perceive as the base, is flat, whilst the upper surface is slightly concave. It is here that the most compelling evidence lies.

On this concave surface, there is a clear indication that the centre was subjected to intensive and targeted heating. This has left its mark in the form of a crackled, blackened patch, suggesting exposure to heat far greater than the rest of the piece and far higher than would be required for the simple firing of a Neolithic ceramic object.

This naturally leads to the next question, why?

One possibility that springs to mind for us is that it functioned as a small crucible, perhaps used to process a metal that was rare, beautiful and precious both then and now, gold. Could this have been a jeweller’s tool, used to manufacture ornaments of status and power during a time of transformation from the Late Neolithic into the Bronze Age? It is a compelling thought.

Stonehenge was a landscape deeply connected to ritual, community gatherings and burial rites. Radiocarbon dating shows that cremated human remains were deposited around the monument over several centuries during the Late Neolithic and Early Bronze Age, approximately 3000 to 2500 BCE. This span of time bridges what is often referred to as the Chalcolithic period, a transitional age marked by the earliest use of metal alongside long-established stone traditions. Within this context, the association between cremation rites and grave objects such as this ceramic form becomes particularly significant.

In prehistoric Britain, objects placed with the dead were far more than tools or containers. They were expressions of belief, identity and belonging. This ceramic object allows us to step into that dialogue, connecting us with the individuals who shaped sacred landscapes millennia ago.

Materials

• Smoke-fired terracotta

Dimensions

• Height: Approx. 25 mm
• Diameter: Approx. 67 mm

This cup has been made in a small batch, so while you may not receive the exact cup shown in the images, variations will be minimal, making each one unique.

Production

As with all my Museum Quality Replicas, this pot has been handcrafted using traditional techniques to match the original.

• Made entirely by hand from natural clay, using tools similar to those employed by Bronze Age potters.
• The decoration has been applied using hand-twisted cord made from natural lime bark bast fibres, just as the original would have been decorated.
• Due to the firing process, surface variations may occur, ensuring that every pot is one of a kind.

Firing Process

To replicate ancient techniques, this pot has been wood-fired, mirroring the original's open fire firing process, where pots were placed directly in contact with the fuel.

• This technique creates natural surface variations in colour and texture.
• Since open firings produce relatively weak pots, this vessel has been fired at a slightly higher temperature to strengthen it, while maintaining an authentic appearance.

Health & Safety

This is a Museum Quality Replica and not intended for use with food or for burning incense.

• However, you can safely place a modern tea light inside to create a beautiful sunburst effect.
• If using a tea light, always follow the manufacturer's safety guidelines.

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.

Step into the mystery of Stonehenge and bring a piece of prehistoric ritual into your own collection. Order today!