Phallic Chariot Vase / Cup

Details

When this resplendent colour coated beaker was discovered at Great Chesterford, Essex, all those involved in the dig must have been giddy with excitement to find such a rare treasure as this. 

We have faithfully replicated this magnificent vessel using barbotine slip decorating techniques that were used by Romano-British potters, who originally created this style of barbotine decorated, colour coated beaker.  Although barbotine decoration was a popular technique for potters of this time, it would only have been a true master who was able to create scenes quite as complex as those shown in this beauty. 

Taking a great deal of time and care to create, grand vessels such as these were probably made by Romano-British pottery as a demonstration of their mastery of this stunning pottery style.   It may also be likely that such elaborate scenes were made as a special commission or for the most discerning of pottery enthusiasts. 

Dated to the late second or early third century, this stunning gem is currently in the collection of the Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology (MAA) at Cambridge University, (catalogue No. Z30141). It is described in the Museum catalogue:

 “Large beaker of colour-coated (Colchester) ware, with barbotine decoration showing a chariot-race, the chariots being drawn by teams of phalluses, which run on cocks' legs. Various other phalluses are dotted about the scene, also a couple indulging in sexual intercourse, after a fashion.”

Like the original, this replica really is a special piece! 

Materials

Earthenware clay

Dimensions

Approx. 220 mm tall, 180 mm diameter 

Production

This replica Roman pot has been hand made in Northumberland by Potted History, based on an original artefact.  It has been fired to a temperature of between 800 & 1000 Centigrade, to emulate the same techniques that the original potters would have employed nearly two thousand years ago. This process often results in variations of the surface colour and texture, as is common with the original Roman Pottery.  As each pot varies ever so slightly, you many not receive the exact cup in the images. You can be sure that due to the variations caused by the firing and hand-making process, your pot will be a one of a kind. 

Postage
All items are sent using a second class postal service, if you wish to have an item sent first class please contact me for a quote. Many Thanks