Chippenham Samian Ware Bowl

Handcrafted Replica Roman Samian Ware Bowl

Details

This stunning museum-quality replica is based on a remarkable Roman Samian Ware bowl dating from around AD 70 - 130. The original was discovered in the back garden of antiquities expert Marc Allum in Chippenham, Wiltshire—an extraordinary find that is helping to rewrite the history of the area.

The original bowl, made in Gaul (modern-day France), would have travelled across the Roman Empire before arriving in Wiltshire, where it lay buried for centuries. In the 15th century, a vicarage was built on the site, and the bowl remained hidden beneath the ground until its chance discovery in 2018.

A Discovery That Rewrites History

This find was a major archaeological breakthrough, as evidence of Roman activity in Chippenham had been scarce until then.

“The archaeologists are absolutely thrilled because it is probably one of the best things that has been found in the town.” – Marc Allum

Marc speculated that the bowl’s presence suggests a Roman farmstead, making it the first real evidence of a Roman settlement in Chippenham.

From Ancient Gaul to Your Hands

The original bowl has been donated to Chippenham Museum, where it is now on display for all to enjoy. This faithful replica has been handcrafted using the same techniques employed by Roman potters nearly two thousand years ago.

As with all decorated Samian Ware, the process of recreating this bowl involved:

• Hand-carving a set of punches, replicating the original designs, which were then fired into terracotta clay.
• Pressing the punches into a mould to create the intricate patterns.
• Wheel-forming the final bowl within the mould, mirroring the authentic Roman process.
• Dipping the dried bowl into a terra sigillata slip—a fine liquid clay that, when fired, achieves the signature glossy red finish.
• Firing the finished piece to nearly 1100°C, ensuring a durable and authentic result.

This method faithfully reproduces the iconic appearance and craftsmanship of original Samian Ware bowls made in Roman Gaul.

Materials

• Terracotta with a red slip finish

Dimensions

• Diameter: Approx. 210 mm
• Height: Approx. 130 mm

Production

This handmade replica has been crafted in Northumberland by Potted History, inspired by the original artefact, which we were fortunate to view with the support of the Senhouse Museum.

Health & Safety

As with all our museum-quality replicas, this piece has been fired to achieve an authentic finish.

• Not food safe – Like the original, this pot is unglazed, making it porous and unsuitable for food use.
• For display and historical study only – While it is a faithful reproduction, this vessel is intended for decorative purposes or experimental archaeology.

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.

Step into history with a handcrafted Roman treasure. Order today!