Bronze Age Bell Beaker, All Over Corded

Handcrafted Replica All Over Cord Beaker (AOC)

Details 

This Early Bronze Age beaker is a faithful replica of the All Over Cord Beaker (AOC) style, so named because of the painstakingly applied cord decoration covering the entire surface in tight rings—a process that can take up to three hours.

This beaker is based on examples excavated near Stonehenge, most notably from the graves of the Boscombe Bowmen and the Amesbury Archer. These beautifully crafted and highly decorated vessels were frequently found among the grave goods of high-status burials, indicating their cultural and ritual significance during the Early Bronze Age.

Historical Context

Around 2500 BCE, Britain saw the first use of gold and copper, marking the transition from the Neolithic to the Bronze Age. This period was a time of immense social and technological change, with some research suggesting a wave of migration from Europe that significantly altered Britain’s population.

In terms of pottery, this era saw a flourishing of artistic expression, with potters showcasing their exceptional skills through highly decorated beakers, often used in ceremonial and burial practices.

Materials

• Smoke-fired terracotta

Dimensions

• Height: Approx. 150 mm
• Diameter: Approx. 130 mm

Production

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

• The decoration has been applied using a bone comb, just as the original potter would have done.

Firing Process

To achieve an authentic appearance, this beaker has been fired in a way that emulates ancient firing conditions.

• The original pot 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 increase durability while maintaining authenticity.
• The exterior has been finished with beeswax, giving it a subtle sheen, similar to the original Bronze Age 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 All Over Cord Beaker. Order today!