Ancient Roman Amphora Handle Section, England (Roman Britannia), c.100 - 300 AD

A substantial fragment of a Roman amphora handle, originating from the ceramic vessels widely used across the Roman Empire for the transport and storage of wine, olive oil, and other essential commodities. These utilitarian vessels formed the backbone of Roman trade networks, moving goods across vast distances between provinces, ports, and military sites.

This example was found in England and forms part of an old southern English collection. The specimen preserves its original curved form and structural thickness, with the fracture surfaces revealing a relatively coarse ceramic fabric with visible inclusions, consistent with a high-fired Roman transport amphora engineered for strength and durability rather than aesthetic finish.

Specimen Details

Specimen: Roman Amphora Handle Fragment

Culture: Roman Imperial Period

Date: c. AD 100–300

Material: Ceramic (Terracotta)

Origin: England (Roman Britannia)

Function: Transport vessel handle (amphora for wine/oil)

Provenance: Old Southern English collection

Condition: Fragmentary, stable archaeological surface with natural age-related wear

Measurements: 100 mm (L) × 51 mm (W) × 32 mm (D)

Weight: 77.8 g