Record

Steatite stamp

< 1 of 1 > Back

From Tranent, East Lothian

Postcard of Steatite stamp.
000-100-037-624-C
© National Museums Scotland

Steatite stamp

This steatite stamp was found at Tranent in East Lothian. It belonged to a Roman oculist, an eye doctor. It was pressed into special ointments, giving details of their names and the substances used. The stamp was used between 80 and 165 AD.

Both sides of the stamp made inscriptions which are similar to modern advertising slogans. This side translates as 'Lucius Valerius Latinus's mild saffron salve for afflictions [of the eye]'.

The Roman army medical service was impressively equipped and could deal with a variety of injuries. They had eye lotions, potions and powders, and a range of surgical instruments.


Record details

To search on related items, click any linked text below.

Online ID: 000-100-037-624-C
Image Rights Holder: National Museums Scotland
Project: 0098: National Museums Scotland
Project description | View all records in project
Ref: National Museums Scotland  X.FT 25
Date: Between 80 and 165 AD
Material: Steatite, green. Inscription: On one side: L. VALLANTINIA PAL*CR* CODES AD DIATHESIS; on other side: L. VALLANTINIE EVODES AD CL CATRICES ET ASPRITVDIN
Dimensions:
What: Stamp, oculist's
Subject:
Who:
Where: Scotland, East Lothian, Tranent
Event:
Description: Oculist's stamp of imported green steatite, from Tranent
References:
  • Clarke, D.V., Breeze, D.J., and Mackay, Ghillean. The Romans in Scotland. An introduction to the collections of the National Museums of Antiquities of Scotland. Edinburgh: National Museum of Antiquities of Scotland, 1980, p 48. 
Translations:
Related Records:
< 1 of 1 > Back
 
Powered by Scran