This large Roman Terra Sigillata bowl represents a remarkable example of prestigious ceramics from the Roman Empire, dating to the 2nd-3rd centuries AD. Featuring a wide decorated rim, it testifies to the refinement of imperial production and Roman lifestyle.
Analysis & expertise
Careful examination under magnification and raking light reveals all expected authenticity characteristics: homogeneous fine red-orange paste, well-preserved lustrous slip, coherent archaeological patina, and regular surface wear. No intrusive modern restoration was detected, the specimen being preserved intact with excellent structural condition.
The internal face presents a beautifully smoothed appearance with circular turning marks still perceptible. The wide rim is decorated with a discrete frieze of undulating or "S"-shaped motifs, treated in slight relief and softened by time but remaining perfectly legible.
The external face reveals a wide, well-defined base ring. At the center, an ancient graffito in the form of a cross (X), incised after firing, testifies to a workshop, batch, or owner's mark. White concretions and mineral deposits attest to a long stay in archaeological context.
Flan and edge
The silhouette is clean and balanced, with a slightly concave bottom, regular ascending wall, and rounded rim marked by a discrete internal step. The external edge shows small ancient chips, patinated and non-structural.
Characteristics
Dimensions: approximately 40 mm height × 190 mm diameter. Material: Terra Sigillata with fine red-orange paste and lustrous slip. Homogeneous slip wear shows micro-scratches, matte areas, and light abrasions consistent with ancient use.
Historical context
Terra Sigillata represents the prestigious tableware of the Roman Empire, mass-produced in major centers in Italy, Gaul, and North Africa. Wide-rimmed bowls occupy a central place in Roman table service, used in daily meals as well as banquets, and sometimes in cultic or funerary contexts.
Cultural value
This bowl constitutes direct testimony to Roman daily life, evoking the universe of meals and banquets where Terra Sigillata embodied refinement and accessibility. Its large diameter and legible decoration make it an ideal piece for collection or museum presentation.
Traceability & guarantees
Originating from an old American private collection assembled between 1970 and 2000, the object benefits from documented provenance. The transfer respects best practices and cultural property regulations. Certificate of authenticity provided.
