Roman jug

ITEM: Jug
MATERIAL: Pottery
CULTURE: Roman
PERIOD: 1st - 3rd Century A.D
DIMENSIONS: 188 mm x 110 mm
CONDITION: Good condition
PROVENANCE: Ex French private collection, acquired between 1970 - 1990

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 jugs were versatile vessels used for storing, pouring, and serving liquids, particularly in domestic and ceremonial contexts. Made from materials such as terracotta, glass, or metal, Roman jugs were commonly used for liquids like wine, water, oil, and vinegar. These jugs were essential components of Roman tableware and storage solutions, reflecting the advanced ceramic production techniques of the empire. The design of Roman jugs varied widely, with some featuring simple, utilitarian forms, while others were more elaborate, adorned with decorative motifs, and designed to serve as both functional and status-symbolizing objects. The shape of the jug was typically characterized by a rounded body, a long neck, and a handle, often with a spout for controlled pouring.

One of the most common types of Roman jugs was the oenochon, which was specifically designed for holding and serving wine. These jugs were often found in Roman homes, villas, and public bathhouses, where wine played a central role in daily life and social gatherings. Some jugs were crafted with intricate reliefs or painted scenes, which could range from mythological depictions to representations of daily Roman life. The use of color and texture in the decoration of jugs was not just artistic; it also reflected the status and wealth of the owner. Wealthier Romans would commission more decorative jugs made from higher-quality materials, often featuring gilding or enamel work, while more common versions were simpler but no less functional.

Roman jugs also had a significant role in religious and funerary practices. In domestic shrines or temples, jugs were used to store offerings of liquids to the gods, often as part of libation rituals. These vessels were also frequently found in tombs, sometimes buried with the deceased as offerings or to ensure the continued provision of liquids in the afterlife. Some jugs, particularly those made from glass, reflect the technological advances in Roman glassmaking, showing the skill and innovation of Roman artisans.