A recently restored bronze and enamel cup, believed to have belonged to a young Roman toddler, is now showcased at Corinium Museum in Cirencester, England. The cup, discovered over a decade ago in an ancient grave, was revealed to the public in an announcement made by Cotswold District Council on Saturday, October 10.
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The artefact, known as a tettine, was unearthed during excavations in 2011 alongside the Corinium Cockerel, a separate but significant item that has also garnered attention. Initially, the cup was found in a fragmented state, leading to concerns about its preservation. It remained in pieces until a conservation effort funded by the Friends of Corinium Museum made it possible for the cup to undergo restoration.
Archaeologists believe that the cup was included in the child’s grave as a means of accompanying the child’s spirit on its journey to the Underworld. The somber yet poignant nature of this discovery reflects the emotional depth with which Roman families may have approached the loss of a young child.
The site of the original discovery was located outside the Roman walls of Corinium, an area identified as part of an ancient cemetery. The burial context suggests that the items found alongside the child were intended to provide comfort and assistance in the afterlife, illustrating the cultural significance of such artefacts in the Roman world.
Emma Stuart, director of Corinium Museum, highlighted the significance of the cockerel, describing it as a representation of the deity Mercury. Stuart explained that the cockerel was placed in the grave to guide the child’s spirit to the Underworld and to ensure it would not become lost during its journey. This thoughtful detail encapsulates the care and concern shown by the child’s family, an emotional connection that echoes through the ages.
In conjunction with the cup’s display, Kathryn Allison, representing the Friends of Corinium Museum, expressed her enthusiasm for the project. “We are proud to have funded the conservation of the tettine cup and to help reunite it with the Corinium Cockerel,” she stated. She also took the opportunity to extend gratitude to all supporters whose contributions made the restoration possible.
The timing of this reveal coincides with the Cirencester History Festival, during which the Corinium Cockerel has been adopted as the official mascot. This event not only highlights the reunited relics but also celebrates the rich historical tapestry of the region.
For the first time since its excavation, the cup is now displayed alongside the cockerel, providing visitors with a rare opportunity to view these significant artefacts together. The exhibition offers a tangible connection to the lives of Roman families, inviting guests to reflect on the emotional realities of life and death in ancient times.
Overall, the restoration and display of the toddler’s cup at Corinium Museum is a testament to the dedication of conservationists and the enduring significance of historical artefacts. It serves as a reminder of the complexities of human emotion and the ancient rituals associated with mourning and remembrance. As scholars continue to unravel the narratives surrounding such discoveries, visitors are encouraged to engage with the past and recognise the stories that these artefacts hold.