Roman Samian Pottery Shard, from the 3rd Century

Roman Samian Pottery Shard, from the 3rd Century

Find site: Thames, London.

Samian pottery, also known as Terra Sigillata, is a type of fine pottery used in the Roman Empire from the 1st to the 3rd century AD. This pottery is characterized by its smooth, glossy surface and colorful nuances, ranging from light orange to deep red. Samian pottery was primarily produced in Gaul (modern-day France) and is known for its decorative designs, often featuring mythological or everyday motifs. The pottery was manufactured using molds, which made it possible to mass-produce and standardize both forms and sizes. This contributed to its popularity throughout the Roman Empire.

Measurements approx.: 2,9x2,5 cm.

Condition: see pictures.