Roman Votive Breast

Details

This replica is based on an example in the Roman Collection at the British Museum dated from the 3rd to 1st century BC. However, there are several different versions of individual breast votives from the ancient world, and they vary significantly in terms of design. This variation is probably due to individual potters producing and selling their own versions throughout the empire. One thing is clear from the numbers found is that they were a popular offering throughout the Roman world, including at the Sanctuary of Asklepios, Epidaurus. 

Context 

Votive offerings in the form of human body parts have been found in their thousands across the ancient world. These ritual objects were left at healing sanctuaries and religious sites as offerings to the gods. One presumption is that they were left in the hopes of conjuring divine intervention during instances of illness, injury and disease. It is also thought that they may have been left as thanks after the event to honour the gods whose intervention was gratefully received.  

The effectiveness of these offerings is unknown, but their popularity as a form of health care is undeniable. I prefer to rely on the hard-working folks of the NHS. 

 Materials

White earthenware or terracotta earthenware

Dimensions

Approx. 85 mm high, 125 mm diameter 

Production

This replica Roman pot has been hand made in Northumberland by Potted History, based on an original artefact.  It has been fired to a temperature of between 800 & 1000 Centigrade, to emulate the same techniques that the original potters would have employed nearly two thousand years ago. This process often results in variations of the surface colour and texture, as is common with the original Roman Pottery and giving each piece it's unique character.

Postage
All items are sent using a second class postal service, if you wish to have an item sent first class please contact my for a quote. Many Thanks