The lead ingot above is also known as a ‘pig’ due to its enourmous size. It measures around 70cm in length and weighs 85kg. This pig is one of less than 30 known to exist from the lead mines in the Mendips. It was found at Bitterne Manor, Southampton.
The top of the pig is inscribed IMP VESPASIAN AVG - The Emperor Vespasian Augustus
The side of the ingot is inscribed ERITE ARG VEB - This means that the silver has been removed through the process of cupellation. Also visible on the pig is the inscription SOC NONEC - the name of the manufacturer of the ingot.
The pig was found in Bitterne Manor, the Roman town of Clausentum which had an early military granary and at least two Samian warehouses. It was later defended with large walls and continued to be a vital port throughout the Roman period.
The pig has been laser scanned as part of a collaborative project between Southampton Cultural Services and the Department of Archaeology at the University of Southampton
SOTLS : A1997.52
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