Fragment of a ceramic amphora

Amphorae are large, distinctive containers, usually pottery, used to transport perishable goods over long distances. This amphora handle was found at Newstead in Roxburghshire. It has a painted inscription which describes the owner.

The inscription reads 'ATTI SECVNDI TR LAGVNVM III' which can be translated as '[Property] of Attius Secundus, tribune; a jar of three modii [26 litres].

Literacy was crucial to Roman supply across the empire. Numeracy was also important - quantities were weighed and measured against common standards. Most Roman soldiers were literate to some degree, and some inscribed their names on belongings.

Record details

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Online ID:	000-100-037-441-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 1433
Date:	Between 80 and 100 AD
Material:	Ceramic, grey; thin; handles either side of neck; bottom restored; inscribed on neck
Dimensions:	25.00" H; mouth 3.00" D
What:	Pottery / amphora
Subject:
Who:	Newstead Collection
Where:	Scotland, Roxburghshire, Melrose, Newstead
Event:
Description:	Amphora of thin grey ware with painted inscription 'Atti Secundi ...' on neck, from Newstead
References:	Curle, J. A Roman frontier post and its people: the fort of Newstead. Glasgow: MacLehose, 1911, Pl. LII, 20.
Translations:
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