ROMAN MINIATURE OBJECT

41

A complete cast copper-alloy miniature vessel of Roman date. The miniature vessel is formed of an expanded rim, before tapering slightly and widening towards the centre. The vessel then tapers towards the expanded foot. Two handles are visible located on either side of the vessel. The rim has suffered some slight damage (8.3mm x 7.1mm) and is 6.65mm in height. The handles project outwards from the rim at a ninety degree angle before turning inwards at an eighty degree angle and one hundred and ninety degree angle rejoining the vessel slightly above the expanded centre. The handles are not symmetrical and the broadly pointed oval perforation is larger on the right handle. The centre of the vessel is oval in cross section and expands to 13.85mm x 13.05mm before tapering towards the base which is 6.9mm wide. The miniature vessel is worn and abraded in places with a mid - light green patina. Green, 1981 page 261 has two examples of clay miniature amphorae from Norton. A further example from Nantes is discussed.The vessel is 27.6mm in length, 20.25mm wide, 13.05mm thick and weighs 15.29 grams.