Bronze Age Beaker, Comb Decorated

Handcrafted Replica Bronze Age Beaker – Antler Comb Decoration

Details

This faithfully recreated Bronze Age Beaker is inspired by original vessels that played a significant role in early Bronze Age burial rituals. The presence of beakers in burials suggests their cultural importance, possibly for ceremonial drinking, feasting, or offerings to the dead.

This replica has been hand-formed from slightly gritty clay, burnished to a smooth sheen, and intricately decorated using an antler comb, replicating authentic prehistoric techniques. Dating from around 2200 BCE, this type of beaker would have been used as a drinking vessel.

Historical Context

Around 2500 BCE, Britain saw the introduction of gold and copper metalworking, marking the transition from the Neolithic to the Bronze Age. Alongside these advancements came the introduction of highly decorated pottery beakers.

This period was one of significant social and cultural change, with some research suggesting that waves of migration from Europe brought new technologies and traditions. In pottery, this resulted in a flourishing of craftsmanship, where skilled potters showcased their artistry through meticulously decorated ceramics.

Materials

• Smoke-fired terracotta

Dimensions

• Height: Approx. 160 mm
• Diameter: Approx. 152 mm

Production

As with all my Museum Quality Replicas, this pot has been handcrafted entirely by hand, using natural clay and replica tools based on those used by Bronze Age potters.

• The decoration has been applied using an antler comb, creating intricate designs similar to those found on original Bronze Age beakers.

Firing Process

To achieve an authentic appearance, this pot has been wood-fired, replicating ancient firing conditions.

• The original beaker would have been fired in an open wood fire, in direct contact with the fuel, creating natural variations in surface colour.
• However, the low temperatures of open firings result in weaker pottery, so this beaker has been fired at a slightly higher temperature to strengthen it while still maintaining an authentic prehistoric finish.

Health & Safety

This is a Museum Quality Replica and not intended for use as a drinking vessel.

• If you require replica pots suitable for food or beverages, please contact me before purchasing.

Ordering Information

• 'Add to Basket' Items: Ready to ship immediately.
• 'Pre-order' Items: Handmade to order within 90 days (longer for international orders). If your order includes both 'Add to Basket' and 'Pre-order' items, they will be shipped together once all items are ready.

Shipping

• All items are sent via second-class postal service as standard.
• If you require first-class shipping, please contact me for a custom quote.

Own a piece of Bronze Age history with this handcrafted replica beaker. Order today!