Bronze Age Grape Cup - Wilsford G7

Handcrafted Replica Wilsford G7 Grape Cup

Details

This stunning replica Grape Cup is based on an original find from the Wilsford G7 Bronze Age barrow, part of the Greater Stonehenge landscape. This site, consisting of 19 round barrows, is of immense archaeological significance, forming a major Bronze Age cemetery where many extraordinary artefacts have been unearthed.

This intricately crafted cup is an example of remarkable Bronze Age craftsmanship, featuring six rings of beads, each with around 26 individual clay beads—more than 150 beads in total. The careful application of these beads, along with the pierced ventilation holes between them, gives this vessel a strikingly tactile and elaborate form.

Theories Behind Its Purpose

Although often referred to as an incense cup, the exact function of these vessels remains a mystery. However, one plausible theory suggests that these cups were used to carry a smouldering coal from the home hearth to the ceremonial cremation site.

• The pierced holes would allow airflow, helping sustain the ember inside.
• The beads may have provided insulation, preventing direct contact with the pot’s hot surface.
• This could explain why multiple grape cups have been discovered as burial goods, possibly linked to funerary rites.

Through experimentation, we have found that this style of vessel also makes an excellent hand warmer—though whether this was its intended function remains unknown.

Materials

• Smoke-fired terracotta

Dimensions

• Diameter: Approx. 100 mm
• Height: Approx. 70 mm

Production

As with all my Museum Quality Replicas, this cup has been entirely hand-built, using natural clay and traditional tools, mirroring the techniques of Bronze Age potters.

• Each bead has been applied individually with great care.
• The vessel has been fired in a wood fire, recreating the surface colouration of the original.
• It has been finished with beeswax polish, a material that has been identified in prehistoric pottery residues.
• Where evidence of ancient tool use exists, I have replicated those tools using stone, wood, shell, bone, and antler, based on original artefacts.

Firing Process

To achieve an authentic finish, this pot has been fired in direct contact with fuel, just as the original potters would have done.

• Open wood firing creates natural colour variations on the surface.
• However, because low-temperature firings result in fragile pottery, this beaker has been fired at a slightly higher temperature for additional durability.

Health & Safety

This is a Museum Quality Replica and not intended for use as a cooking 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 remarkable piece of Bronze Age history with this handcrafted replica Wilsford G7 Grape Cup. Order today!