Small Senhouse Samian Ware Bowl

Handcrafted Replica Roman Samian Ware Bowl – Inspired by a Find from Maryport

Details

This small Samian Ware bowl is based on a larger vessel discovered in Maryport, Cumbria, by a father and son walking their dog. They noticed the distinctive red decoration emerging from the dark earth and decided to investigate. To their surprise, they uncovered an almost intact Roman bowl containing ashes, bone fragments, and hobnails—revealing that it was part of a Roman cremation burial.

The contents of the bowl are now housed in the Senhouse Museum collection, though the original bowl itself is no longer at the museum. Potted History was commissioned by Senhouse Museum to create this accurate replica for their display, ensuring the story of this remarkable find remains accessible.

This handcrafted replica has been made using the same techniques employed by Roman potters nearly 1,900 years ago.

As with all decorated Samian Ware, the recreation process began with hand-carving a set of punches identical to those used by ancient Roman mould makers. These terracotta punches were then fired and used to impress the intricate design into a bowl mould. The mould was fired to 1000°C, mounted onto a potter’s wheel, and the final bowl was formed inside it—just as it would have been in Gaulish Samian Ware workshops of the first, second, and third centuries AD.

Once dry, the bowl was trimmed on the wheel, its foot ring added, and then dipped into terra sigillata slip (liquid clay), which gives Samian Ware its characteristic deep red colour and sheen when fired.

Finally, after a week-long drying process, the bowl was fired to nearly 1100°C, ensuring both durability and an authentic finish.

Note:
While this was a significant find, uncovering archaeological artefacts in this way is not standard procedure. If you come across an important historical object on public land, always seek advice from the relevant authorities before disturbing it. Under the Treasure Act 1996, certain finds must be reported to the local coroner within 14 days.

Materials

• Terracotta with a red slip finish

Dimensions

• Diameter: Approx. 190 mm
• Height: Approx. 120 mm

Production

Each museum-quality replica is handcrafted in Northumberland by Potted History, directly inspired by the original artefact—which we were fortunate enough to study, thanks to the support of the Senhouse Museum.

Health & Safety

This museum-quality replica has been made using authentic Roman tools and techniques. As an unglazed and porous vessel, it will absorb liquids and flavours over time, much like original Roman pottery.

• Not food safe: Due to its porous nature, this vessel does not meet modern health and safety standards for food use.
• For display and experimental archaeology purposes only: While some enthusiasts use these replicas for experimental archaeology, doing so is at your own risk.
• The Romans ensured food safety by heating their pots and contents to over 70°C for at least 10 minutes to kill bacteria, 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 us for a custom quote.
• Postage Note: All items are carefully packaged to ensure they arrive in perfect condition.

Own a piece of Roman history with this beautifully handcrafted Samian Ware bowl, inspired by an extraordinary find in Maryport. Order today to bring the past into your collection!