Record

Mess can (detail)

< 1 of 1 > Back

from Newstead, Roxburghshire

Postcard of Mess can (detail).
000-190-001-189-C
© National Museums Scotland

Mess can (detail)

This is a detail of a bronze mess can found at the site of the Roman fort at Newstead in Roxburghshire. It shows the inscription on the rim. The mess can dates from between 80 and 180 AD.

The inscription on the rim reads 'Turma Crispi Nigri' ('Troop of Crispus, property of Niger'). Like all of the mess cans from Newstead, this example shows considerable signs of wear.

Brought to Scotland by the Romans, writing was a vital part of the bureaucracy generated by the army. Many Roman soldiers could read and write to some extent, and marked their names on their belongings.


Record details

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

Online ID: 000-190-001-189-C
Image Rights Holder: National Museums Scotland
Project: 0098: National Museums Scotland
Project description | View all records in project
Ref: National Museums Scotland  X.FRA 1191
Date: Between 80 and 180 AD
Material: Bronze; everted rim; punctured inscription
Dimensions: 125 mm H x 180 mm Dia (max)
What: Kettle, camp
Subject:
Who: Newstead Collection
Where: Scotland, Roxburghshire, Melrose, Newstead
Event:
Description: Bronze camp kettle with everted rim and punctured inscription 'turma Crispi Nigri', from Newstead
References:
  • Clarke, D.V., Breeze, D.J., and Mackay, G. 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 43. 
  • Curle, J. A Roman Frontier Post and its People: The Fort of Newstead in the Parish of Montrose. Glasgow: J Maclehose & Sons, 1911, pp 273-4, pl. LIII. 
Translations:
Related Records:
< 1 of 1 > Back
 
Powered by Scran