Bronze Age Beaker, Kilmartin

Handcrafted Replica Nether Largie Beaker

Details

This exquisite Bronze Age beaker is based on an original discovered at the Nether Largie South Cairn, one of the earliest ancient monuments in Kilmartin Glen, Scotland. The cairn is part of a linear cemetery stretching three miles through this historically significant landscape.

A Monument to the Past

Originally constructed during the Neolithic (c. 3600 BCE), the Nether Largie Cairn was in continuous use for over a thousand years. Initially built as a rectangular passage tomb, it later evolved into a circular structure, reflecting changes in funerary practices and beliefs over time.

Around 2500 BCE, during the early Bronze Age, two stone cist burials were added, containing grave goods such as beaker pottery, flint tools, knives, and arrowheads—some of which are now on display at Kilmartin Museum.

This beaker is a faithful reproduction of one of these extraordinary finds, showcasing the artistry and craftsmanship of Bronze Age potters.

Historical Context

The Beaker Culture introduced metallurgy to Britain around 2500 BCE, bringing gold and copper alongside finely decorated pottery beakers. This period marked a profound shift in society, with trade, migration, and new technologies reshaping ancient Britain.

Highly decorated beakers like this one were often found in elite burials, demonstrating their ritual and social importance.

Materials

• Smoke-fired terracotta

Dimensions

• Height: Approx. 210 mm
• Diameter: Approx. 160 mm

Production

As with all my Museum Quality Replicas, this beaker has been meticulously handcrafted using natural clay and traditional tools, replicating the techniques of Bronze Age potters.

• The intricate decoration has been applied using a bone comb, just as the original potter would have done.
• The exterior has been finished with beeswax, providing a subtle historically accurate sheen.

Firing Process

• The original beaker would have been fired in an open wood fire, in direct contact with fuel, creating unique surface colour variations.
• However, open firing produces fragile pottery, so this beaker has been fired at a slightly higher temperature for added strength while maintaining an authentic 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 Nether Largie Beaker. Order today!