ITEM: Plate
MATERIAL: Terra Sigillata
CULTURE: Roman
PERIOD: 2nd - 3rd Century A.D
DIMENSIONS: 35 mm x 162 mm diameter
CONDITION: Good condition, restored
PROVENANCE: Ex Dutch private collection, acquired between 1970 - 1980

Comes with Certificate of Authenticity and Export Licence. If you are from outside the European Union, we will have to apply for the export licence again for your country, this takes 3 to 5 weeks and has a cost of 5% of the hammer price, this amount will be added to the final invoice.

Roman plates, known in Latin as discus or patella, were essential dining implements in ancient Roman households and played a significant role in Roman cuisine and table settings. These plates came in various shapes and sizes, typically round or slightly oval, and were made from a range of materials including ceramic, metal, glass, and occasionally wood. Ceramic plates, often produced in the fine, glazed pottery styles of Terra Sigillata, were common for both everyday use and special occasions. Metal plates, typically made of silver or bronze, were more luxurious and were often used in wealthier households, reflecting the owner’s status and wealth.

The design and decoration of Roman plates varied significantly depending on their intended use and the social status of their owners. Simple, unadorned ceramic plates were used for regular meals, while more elaborate designs with intricate motifs or patterns were reserved for festive occasions and feasts. The plates used at banquets or in the homes of the elite were sometimes engraved with detailed scenes from mythology, everyday life, or geometric patterns. These artistic details not only enhanced the dining experience but also served as a reflection of the host’s taste and social standing. The variety in plate design illustrates the importance of dining rituals in Roman culture and the value placed on both functionality and aesthetics.

Roman plates also provide insights into the social and cultural practices of the time. For example, the size and material of plates could indicate the social status of individuals and their level of wealth. Archaeological discoveries of Roman plates at various sites reveal patterns of trade and cultural exchange, as different styles and materials were sometimes imported from other parts of the empire. Additionally, the study of inscriptions or decorations on these plates can offer clues about Roman dining habits, religious practices, and the role of feasting in social and political life. Overall, Roman plates were more than just utilitarian objects; they were integral to the culinary and cultural practices of ancient Rome, reflecting both everyday life and ceremonial occasions.