Black Burnish Plate

Handcrafted Replica Black Burnished Ware Plate

Details

This Black Burnished Ware plate is a faithful replica of a Roman-era vessel, crafted using traditional techniques. These plates were widely used across Roman Britain, known for their distinctive dark finish and burnished surface.

Produced in large quantities, Black Burnished Ware was a staple of Roman kitchens, used for serving food and occasionally as a cooking surface. The deep black colouration results from a reduction firing technique, where oxygen is restricted during the final stages of firing. This process, combined with hand-burnished polishing, gives the plate its smooth, reflective finish.

Materials

• Terracotta clay, fired under reduction conditions

Dimensions

• Height: Approx. 60 mm
• Diameter: Approx. 235 mm

Production

As with all my Museum Quality Replicas, this plate has been handcrafted in Northumberland by Potted History, using natural clay and traditional Roman techniques.

• Fired at 800–1000°C in an authentic replica of a Roman pottery kiln at Vindolanda Museum.
• Surface variations may occur due to the traditional firing process, ensuring each piece is one of a kind, just like the original artefacts.

Health & Safety

This is a Museum Quality Replica and not suitable for food use.

• Porous surface: This plate will absorb flavours during use, much like original Roman vessels.
• Not food safe: Due to its porous nature, this vessel does not meet modern health and safety standards for food use.
• Experimental archaeology: Some enthusiasts use these replicas for experimental archaeology. If you choose to do so, it is at your own risk.
• Roman food safety: The Romans ensured their pots were safe by heating them and their contents to over 70°C for at least 10 minutes, 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 me for a custom quote.

Bring a touch of Roman history into your home with this handcrafted replica Black Burnished Ware Plate. Order today!