R41

Roman red ware pottery flask

A red slip ware pottery flask with two strap handles and appliqué decoration to the surface.

Both sides of the body are decorated with a single appliqué framed by a pair of palm fronds. Both handles are moulded with stylised palm frond decoration.

One appliqué shows a figure of a leaping wild boar. The other appliqué depicts a very interesting male double-head: when viewed normally, one sees a bearded head but when turned upside down one sees another head where the beard has become the hair and the face is clean-shaven. An amusing insight into Roman humour.

Roman, North African colonies, c. 3rd or 4th Century AD

Upper part of vessel restored, one of the handles has been attached from a different vessel and does not belong.

Size:  14.6 x 10 cms

Ex. private collection, UK. Acquired in London during the 1980's/90's.