Bucket

This wooden bucket was found at the site of the Roman fort at Newstead in Roxburghshire. It is a well-preserved example of stave construction, a popular technique used by Roman carpenters for vessels. It dates from between 140 and 180 AD.

The oak staves of the bucket are held together by two iron hoops, one of which is modern. The base of the bucket was probably made of pine. Two iron plates run up opposite sides of the bucket to support the handle.

Stave building of wooden objects such as this bucket was not developed in Scotland, but came here at least 2000 years ago. It is less wasteful and time-consuming than hollowing out a solid block of wood, and enables larger, circular vessels to be made.

Record details

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• Online ID: 000-100-037-368-C
• Image Rights Holder: National Museums Scotland
• Project: National Museums Scotland
  Project description   View all records in project
• Ref: National Museums Scotland  X.FRA 1201
• Date: Between 140 and 180 AD
  
• Material: Wood, oak; iron handle
  Bucket, well
  
• Dimensions: 11.88" H; 10.50" D at mouth
  
• What: Bucket, well
  
• Subject:
• Who: Newstead Collection
  
• Where: Scotland, Roxburghshire, Melrose, Newstead
  
• Event:
• Description: Wooden stave-built well bucket with an iron handle, 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 58. 
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