Fragment of samian ware tableware

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This pottery sherd from the base of samian ware tableware was found at a native broch settlement at Keiss in Caithness. It was a valuable Roman object, probably passed from one native chief to another, ending up miles from the Roman frontier.

The surface of the sherd has been worn smooth in places, perhaps from later reuse as a polisher.

Some Roman officers brought their own fine tablewares to Scotland or purchased imported pieces. Samian ware, made in Gaul, was particularly valued, sometimes repaired if damaged or reused to manufacture other items.

Record details

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• Online ID: 000-100-102-526-C
• Image Rights Holder: National Museums Scotland
• Project: National Museums Scotland
  Project description   View all records in project
• Ref: National Museums Scotland  X.GA 500
• Date: 140 - 300 AD
  Between 140 and 300 AD
  
• Material: Samian, red; reused
  Pottery / sherd
  
• Dimensions:
• What: Pottery / sherd
  
• Subject:
• Who:
• Where: Scotland, Caithness, Keiss
  
• Event:
• Description: Reused sherd of red Samian ware, from Keiss, Caithness, 140 - 300 AD
  
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