Lion Head Mortarium

Handcrafted Replica Roman Lion-Spouted Mortarium – Inspired by Finds from Papcastle Roman Fort

Details

This lion-spouted mortarium (plural: mortaria) is a faithful replica of a type imported into Britain during the late 2nd century AD. Mortaria were an essential part of Roman kitchens, used for grinding herbs, spices, and making purees and pastes.

The interior of the bowl is embedded with fine quartz grit, which acts as a grinding surface. This grit was carefully pressed into the clay before the entire vessel was coated in a red slip, giving it the distinct finish typical of Roman kitchenware.

The stylised lion’s head is not only a decorative touch but also serves a functional purpose. Created in a mould and applied to the side of the bowl, the lion's head features incised details and a carefully cut-out spout, allowing it to double as a juice maker—a perfect example of Roman ingenuity!

Many mortaria found in Britain were East Gaulish imports, and this replica is based on an example discovered at Papcastle Roman Fort in Cumbria.

• Form: Dragendorff 45

Materials

• Earthenware, terracotta

Dimensions

• Height: Approx. 140 mm
• Diameter: Approx. 80 mm

Production

Each museum-quality replica is handcrafted using tools and techniques faithful to the Roman era. Every piece is individually made from natural clay, shaped by hand, and fired using historically accurate methods.

Due to the traditional firing process, each pot is unique, with natural variations in shape, surface texture, and colour. The item you receive may differ slightly from the image provided, ensuring that no two pots are exactly alike.

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 the original mortaria.

• 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.
• Before first use, the internal surface of a Roman mortarium would have been rubbed down with a pestle to remove any loose grit embedded in the clay—helping to avoid potential dental emergencies!

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.

Bring Roman craftsmanship into your home with this beautifully handcrafted lion-spouted mortarium. Order today to own a piece of history!