‘Terra sigillata’ is a type of fine red Roman pottery with a glossy surface slip, which was made in specific areas of the Roman Empire. Terra sigillata is most easily identifiable by its clear and shiny red paint, as well as by the relief decoration, which was modelled, embossed, or applied. In addition, some vessels are impressed with stamps or “seals”. The terra sigillata pottery style was common throughout the Roman Empire from the 1st to the 7th century, with the main bases of production in the African province (modern day Tunisia and Algeria) and the city of Aretium (modern day Arezzo). The interior reliefs were likely attached using liquid fired clay and moulded into the shapes. Alongside Roman mythology, other divine representations from other ancient religions were adorned onto redware pottery, with biblical stories becoming a prominent feature on this type of pottery. Bacchus was commonly portrayed in these kinds of vessels, given his association with wine and banquets.
Roman North African Red Slipware Terracotta Jug
£ 1,500.00
An Ancient Roman red slipware jug from North Africa. The jug features a piriform body, tapering at the neck atop which sits a round terminal and flared lip. A handle curves from beneath the terminal to meet at the shoulder and is adorned with a vine pattern and geometric incisions at the base. The body is enriched with applied decorations of three long, palm leaves situated vertically beneath an encircling incised line. Between the palm leaves is a female figure, perhaps a goddess, surrounded by swirling drapery, and a boar running uphill on the opposite side. The detail here is highly intricate and rendered naturalistically, though the images could have a variety of interpretations. The female figure may represent Artemis, goddess of the hunt who was closely associated with boars. Alternatively, it could portray a Bacchic maenad, as wild and flowing drapery was a key feature in their artistic depictions and Bacchus himself was a common design on pottery such as this. The imagery could even be a stylised representation of the myth of the Caledonian boar, a beast sent by Artemis and wounded by Atalanta. The vessel sits upon a raised round foot.
Condition: Very good condition. A chip to the rim. Some wear to the surface along with encrustation.
In stock
| Weight | 248.2 g |
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| Dimensions | W 11.1 x H 18.3 cm |
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| Pottery and Porcelain |
