Recreation of Ancient Life

For the archaeologist, ceramic vessels can provide invaluable clues for the recreation of ancient life. Storage amphorae (jars) allow us to reconstruct trade and the movement of foodstuffs throughout the Roman Empire since their forms and even the clay reveals their province of origin. Stamps, graffito and painted inscriptions provide further information. We owe the cataloging and classification of amphorae to the late 19th-century scholar Heinrich Dressel. Within the Markets of Trajan, a 17th-century cistern now contains 128 amphorae from Dressel’s own study collection. The functional vessels are displayed according to their “Dressel” numbers. #romacittàdellaceramica #romeceramiccity #terracotta #ceramics #romanamphorae #romantrade #dressel #mercatiditraiano @ Mercati di Traiano - Museo dei Fori Imperiali