Gladiator Samian Ware Bowl

Details

This stunning replica of a Roman Samian ware bowl from around the second century depicts gladiators locked in a vicious battle.  It has been made using the same hand forming techniques that would have been employed by the original Roman potter nearly one thousand nine hundred years ago. 

As with all such decorated Samian Ware bowls the process of recreating it began with the making of a set of punches of exactly the same designs and dimensions as those used by the original mould maker. These were carved from fine terracotta clay and once fired were used to create the design within the bowl mould. This mould was in turn fired to a temperature of 1000°C then mounted onto a potter's wheel, where, while spinning at speed, the final bowl was formed within it.

After drying for some hours the bowl, having now shrunk by a few millimetres could be removed from the mould, replaced onto the wheel and the foot-ring added. After a further period of drying the pot was dipped into the colloidal terra sigillata slip (liquid clay) which, when fired, gives the pot its characteristic colour and shine.

Finally after drying for another week the bowl was fired to nearly 1100°C.  All of these processes are based on those used by Samian Ware workshops in Gaul during the first, second and third centuries.

 Materials

Terracotta, red slip finish

Dimensions

Approx 130mm tall

Production

This replica Roman pot has been hand made in Northumberland by Potted History, inspired by original artefacts. 

Health & Safety

As with all of our Museum quality replicas, this piece has been fired to achieve an authentic finish. Like the original it is not glazed,  as a result this pot does not meet modern health and safety standards and, although decorative, I would not recommend that this pot be used for its original purpose.

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