Triple Cup
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Handcrafted Replica Roman Triple Cup – Mysterious Multi-Chambered Vessel
Details
Triple-chambered drinking cups like this one have been uncovered at several Roman sites across Britain, yet their original purpose remains an intriguing puzzle. With small perforations linking each of the three vessels, these cups allowed liquid to pass gradually from one chamber to the next. The deliberate restriction of flow has led many to believe that they were used in drinking games, tricks, or ceremonial contexts—though the exact use is still up for debate.
Some archaeologists suggest a possible ritual significance, while others imagine laughter around the Roman dinner table as guests tried to outwit the curious mechanics of the cup. One particularly exciting theory links these cups to the mysterious and beloved Vindolanda Owl Pot, suggesting that this form may have been an essential part of the making of the famous find from the Roman fort in Northumberland. You can learn more about that in the video below.
Whether used for mischief or mystery, this unusual vessel offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives and imaginations of those who lived in Roman Britain.
Materials
Earthenware terracotta
Dimensions
Approx. 115 mm tall
Approx. 175 mm diameter
Production
This museum-quality replica has been handcrafted in Northumberland by Potted History, following the techniques used by Roman potters nearly 2,000 years ago.
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Thrown and assembled by hand
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Fired between 800°C – 1,000°C to achieve an authentically Roman finish
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As with the originals, subtle variations in colour and texture may occur due to the firing process, ensuring every piece is unique
Health and Safety
This is a Museum Quality Replica made using the tools and techniques that would have been used during the Roman era. It is unglazed and porous, which means:
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Not food safe: This vessel does not meet modern health and safety standards for food use.
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For display or experimental archaeology only: If used practically, this is entirely at your own risk.
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Absorption of liquids: The pot will absorb some flavours if used, just as ancient Roman vessels did.
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Ancient cleaning methods: Roman users relied on heat to sanitise pottery. Heating to over 70°C for 10 minutes would have killed most bacteria, and 100°C or higher would be even more effective—but this is not a substitute for modern safety standards.
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 contains both, all items will be shipped together once complete.
Shipping
All items are sent via second-class postal service by default.
If you require first-class delivery, please contact us for a quote.
Capture a curious piece of Roman history for your collection—order your replica triple cup today!
SHIPPING
'Add To Cart' items are ready to send straight away. Please be aware that if bought alongside 'Pre-order' items, your order will be sent when all items are ready.
'Pre-order' items are made to order, and we will dispatch them as soon as we have handcrafted them for you; this usually takes 90 days, but international orders can take a little longer.
We ship our fabulous replicas worldwide.
Shipping costs are worked out during checkout. They are based on where you are in the world and how heavy your parcel is, which can be very variable.
All items are sent using a second-class postal service. If you wish to have an item sent first class, please contact us for a quote. Many Thanks
RETURNS
If you aren't completely satisfied with your Potted History piece, please get in touch to organise a return. Email us at
clare@rothburycreates.co.uk
Then you can send it back at your own cost in an unused condition within 30 days, and we'll refund you for the cost of the item or items returned. If you include your order number with the returned package, that will speed things up. Please leave any original packaging intact.
Our returns address is:
Potted History, Gregory Court, Rothbury, Northumberland, NE65 7SW
PRODUCT VARIATION
Please be aware that due to items being handmade and finished, colour variations will occur during the making process, and each replica will have some differences. Also, know that the item photographed may not be the one that you receive, and colours can appear differently on different screens. Please ensure you look at all the images to get a fully formed idea of the item you are ordering as we try to capture the variations within the images we share. If you prefer a specific colour variation, please contact us before ordering.