Fragment of a bronze cauldron

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This fragment of a bronze cauldron was found at Dalkeith in Midlothian. When complete, it was an expensive and prestigious item, presumably used in feasts given by an important leader. The cauldron was used between 100 BC and 100 AD.

The cauldron was made of sheets of bronze, riveted together. Many of the rivets survive. This fragment was patched in antiquity.

Feasting was one form of conspicuous consumption, designed to show off the power, wealth and status of the giver. Some cauldrons were also buried as gifts to the gods, probably symbolic of food and feasting.

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• Online ID: 000-100-034-792-C
• Image Rights Holder: National Museums Scotland
• Project: National Museums Scotland
  Project description   View all records in project
• Ref: National Museums Scotland  X.DU 12
• Date: Between 100 BC and 100 AD
  Iron Age
  
• Material: Bronze; patched
  Cauldron / fragment
  
• Dimensions:
• What: Cauldron / fragment
  
• Subject:
• Who:
• Where: Scotland, Midlothian, Dalkeith, Woodburn Housing Estate
  
• Event:
• Description: Fragment of a riveted bronze cauldron, from Dalkeith, Midlothian, Iron Age
  
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