Oxfordshire Redware Cup

Handcrafted Decorated Roman Beaker – Oxfordshire Redware Style

Details

These delightful Roman beakers are crafted in the Oxfordshire Redware tradition, a pottery style identified by the abundance of archaeological finds in and around Oxfordshire. These discoveries point to a thriving local pottery industry in Roman Britain, producing both everyday wares and finely decorated vessels like this.

While small in size, these beakers carry a refined decorative flair, featuring hand-painted slip designs inspired by Roman originals. Used for daily drinking, vessels such as these would have added a welcome touch of style to the simplest of routines—whether sipping water, wine, or herbal infusions. The Romans understood that even the most ordinary items could be elevated through thoughtful design, and these beakers reflect that enduring philosophy.

With their graceful form and subtle decoration, these beakers remind us that beauty and functionality were never mutually exclusive in the Roman world.

Materials
Terracotta earthenware with hand-painted slip decoration

Dimensions
Height: Approx. 130 mm
Diameter: Approx. 85 mm

Production

These museum-quality replicas have been handmade in Northumberland by Potted History, taking inspiration from Roman pottery traditions:

• Wheel-thrown by hand, following ancient techniques

• Decorated with hand-applied slip in a style reminiscent of Roman domestic ceramics

• Fired between 800°C and 1000°C to replicate ancient kiln conditions

• Each beaker is unique, with subtle variations in shape, colour, and decorative pattern

Health & Safety

This item is a Museum Quality Replica, created using the authentic materials and methods of the Roman era.

• Not food safe: These beakers are unglazed and porous, meaning they will absorb liquids and gradually take on flavours over time. They do not meet modern food safety standards.

• For display or experimental archaeology only: While some customers enjoy using these replicas in historical demonstrations, this is done at your own risk.

• Ancient users relied on heating to above 70°C for at least 10 minutes to kill harmful bacteria, with 100°C or more offering greater protection.

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, they will be shipped together when all items are ready

Shipping
Standard shipping: Second-class postal service
If you require first-class delivery, please contact us for a custom quote
Postage Note: All items are carefully packaged to ensure they arrive safely and in perfect condition

Bring a touch of Roman elegance into your daily life with this finely decorated beaker—where simple utility meets ancient beauty