Samian Ware Fragment

3D Model

Samian ware is a type of glossy red-glazed pottery. It is also sometimes called Terra Sigillata. It was widespread in Britain during Roman times. Samian ware was typically produced in a region called Gaul, which included what is now France and Germany. Some samian ware was plain, while others were highly decorated. It could be quite expensive and was used in the presentation of food. Some pieces of samian ware can be traced back to a specific potter through maker’s stamps or distinctive motifs. For example, the piece here can be traced to the maker Cinnamus who worked at Lezoux in Gaul. - Text by Hannah Devlin