Corbridge Face Flagon

Handcrafted Replica Roman Face Flagon – Inspired by a Corbridge Artefact

Details

This remarkable replica is inspired by a Roman face flagon discovered in Corbridge, Northumberland, a town rich in Roman history and located near Vindolanda Roman Fort. Face flagons were a distinctive ceramic form found across the Roman Empire, often featuring stylised human faces sculpted onto the vessel’s surface. These pots were not just functional but also displayed the artistic flair of Roman potters.

This replica has been meticulously crafted using a combination of wheel-thrown and hand-built techniques, closely following the construction methods of the original artefact. The process requires careful precision to shape and refine the features, ensuring the final piece reflects the skill and craftsmanship of ancient Roman potters.

Historical Context

Roman face flagons were often used as serving vessels for wine and other liquids, blending function with artistry. These face-decorated vessels have been uncovered at sites across the Roman world, suggesting they were both aesthetic and symbolic objects. Their presence in Britain reflects the widespread influence of Roman culture and the artistic traditions that accompanied it.

The Corbridge example, which inspired this replica, is part of a wider collection of fine Roman pottery finds from northern England, many of which were used by Roman soldiers and civilians stationed along Hadrian’s Wall.

Materials

• Earthenware, terracotta

Dimensions

• Height: Approx. 235 mm
• Diameter: Approx. 155 mm

Firing Process

This replica has been fired using a process that faithfully replicates ancient Roman techniques. It has been wood-fired in a replica Roman pottery kiln at Vindolanda Museum, reaching temperatures between 800°C and 1000°C, mirroring the conditions in which Roman potters worked nearly two thousand years ago.

Due to the traditional firing process, each vessel is unique, with variations in surface colour and texture, just as would have been seen in original Roman pottery. The piece you receive may differ slightly from the one photographed, ensuring each replica has an individual, historically authentic finish.

Production

Every piece in our Museum Quality Replica collection is entirely handcrafted in Northumberland. Using tools and techniques based on original Roman methods, our process ensures that each vessel is as accurate as possible.

As with all handmade replicas, slight variations in shape and colour add to the authenticity of the piece. Please note that the item you receive may differ slightly from the image provided.

Health & Safety

This is a museum-quality replica, crafted using traditional Roman methods. As an unglazed and porous vessel, it will absorb liquids and retain flavours over time, much like the original Roman pots used in everyday life.

However, because it does not meet modern health and safety standards, we do not recommend using it for cooking or food storage. The Romans ensured food safety by heating their pots and contents to over 70°C for at least 10 minutes, which would kill most bacteria. Heating to 100°C or higher would have been even more effective.

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 orders are shipped via second-class postal service as standard.
• For first-class shipping, please contact us for a custom quote.
• Postage Note: All items are carefully packaged to ensure they arrive in perfect condition.

Bring the craftsmanship of ancient Rome into your home or collection with this beautifully handcrafted replica. Order today to own a piece of history!