Hebridean Urn / Bowl

Handcrafted Neolithic Hebridean Urn – Third Millennium BCE Style
Details

The Hebridean Isles, off the west coast of Scotland, have a long and rich history of human occupation. Their relative isolation led to the development of a distinctive pottery tradition during the Neolithic period.

This replica Hebridean Urn or bowl is based on examples dating back to the third millennium BCE, when the islanders were farming the land and fishing the surrounding seas for survival. The form is unique to the region, featuring a multi-carinated profile, incised herringbone decoration, and a heavily moulded rim—all contributing to an organic, tactile vessel that is as satisfying to handle as it is to admire.

Materials
Smoke-fired terracotta

Dimensions
Height: Approx. 310 mm
Diameter: Approx. 250 mm

Firing

This vessel has been fired to emulate ancient open firing techniques, similar to how the original pot would have been fired—in close contact with burning wood fuel. This process produces natural surface variations in colour and texture. Because traditional firings achieve low temperatures that result in more fragile pottery, this replica has been fired to a somewhat higher temperature using a specialist method that improves strength while maintaining an authentic finish.

Production

Each piece is handcrafted in Northumberland by Potted History using natural clay and tools based on those used by Neolithic potters. As with the original, the decoration has been applied using a bone tool.

Health & Safety
Museum-Quality Replica: Made using authentic Roman tools and techniques.
Not food safe: This piece is unglazed and porous, meaning it absorbs liquids and does not meet modern health and safety standards for food use.
For display purposes only: While some enthusiasts use replicas for experimental archaeology, doing so is at your own risk.
Ancient users ensured food safety by heating their pots and contents above 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.

Celebrate the resilience and creativity of Neolithic island life. Order today and bring home a piece of Hebridean history.