There were two categories of ancient Roman pottery: Course Wares used by the poor and Fine Wares used by the upper class for formal occasions and to serve food elegantly at the table. Fine wares were refined and delicate with thin walls and a glossy surface sometimes glazed in lead to make them shine. The most common was red glazed pottery called ‘terra sigilata’ or “fine” pottery. African Red Slip or ARS, is a broad category of terra sigillata. Although ARS production originated in Rome its popularity spread rapidly and from the mid-1st century AD into the 7th century it was widespread in the Mediterranean and the Roman North African province of Africa Proconsularis. Made by applying thick-orange red slip over a granular ceramic surface, it was used for wide range of dishes, bowls, plates and other shapes. Many had stamped decorations which were replaced by the 4th century with applique decorations.
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This large terracotta kiln made piece is a Roman Empire serving platter in a technique called ARS (African Red Slip). Created in the Roman North Africa territory named Africa Proconsularis, it is a remarkable piece decorated with circular rings with perfect ridges as it was made using a pottery wheel. Its rim is articulated, a…
This kiln-fired medium size earthenware platter is a wheel made functional piece called African Red Slip (ARS). A category of ancient pottery used by those of high status for formal occasions to serve food, it was made in Roman-Empire production centers in the Roman-North-Africa province called Africa-Proconsularis. They were shipped everywhere along the same trade…
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