Diana Libation Bowl. Phiale, Patera,

Handcrafted Replica Roman Diana Patera – Libation Bowl

Details

Libation bowls were an essential part of ancient Greek (Phiale) and Roman (Patera) rituals, used to offer wine, honey, or milk to the gods. A common practice involved mixing wine with water, decanting it into the phiale, and pouring it onto the ground as an offering. Worshippers may have also consumed the remaining liquid as part of the ritual. This style of libation bowl features a central hollowed knob, known as an 'omphalos' or 'navel', allowing the user to comfortably hold the bowl while performing the offering. Due to this feature, it is sometimes referred to as a mesomphalic phiale. We make our Diana Patera in small batches, so while you may not receive the exact piece shown in the images, all are crafted in the same style with only minor variations.

Materials

Terracotta with a red slip finish

Dimensions

Height: Approx. 45 mm | Diameter: Approx. 180 mm

Production

This museum-quality replica has been handmade in Northumberland by Potted History, inspired by an original artefact. Hand-formed and fired at temperatures between 800°C – 1000°C, using techniques similar to those employed by Roman potters nearly two thousand years ago. Each piece is unique, with surface colour and texture variations that mimic those found in original Roman pottery.

Health & Safety

Museum-Quality Replica – Crafted using authentic Roman tools and techniques. Not food safe – Due to its unglazed and porous nature, this vessel does not meet modern health and safety standards for food use. For display and historical study purposes only – While some enthusiasts use these replicas for experimental archaeology, doing so is at your own risk. In antiquity, Romans ensured food safety by heating their pots and contents to over 70°C for at least 10 minutes, eliminating most disease-causing bacteria, with 100°C or higher offering further 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

Standard shipping: Sent via second-class postal service. Faster delivery: If you require first-class shipping, please contact us for a custom quote.
Honour the gods with an authentic piece of Roman history—order your Diana Patera today!