BEAD 82178

Description: A Roman faience melon bead. The bead is convex in profile and has flattened ends between which the wide circular perforation passes. The bead is thicker on one side and is decorated with 15 almost vertical grooves and ridges. Traces of turquoise glaze survive on the ridges and at the ends, but otherwise the surfaces are buff/grey. Sally Worrell adds: Melon beads were in use during the 1st and 2nd centuries, being most common in the 1st century, particularly on military sites. They were produced in a range of sizes and usually have wide perforations and convex profiles with vertical or slightly diagonal grooves scored into the outside surface. They were produced in a wide range of blue shades ranging from turquoise to bright blue with a buff/greyish core. The exact function for these beads is unknown although it is suggested that the smaller examples may have been used for personal adornment. However the larger examples may have been impractical to wear, particularly around the neck, and an alternative function is that they may have been used to decorate horse harnesses.

Date: 43 - 200

Object type: BEAD

Last import: August 15, 2017