A fine Ancient Roman terracotta pot with handles. The vessel featuring a piriform body, that tapers in at the neck, leading to a wide mouth with an everted rim. The body rests on a flat, slightly concave base. Reddish pigment covers the lower part of the body and the base. Horizontal wheel-marks cover the surface of the pot. Two pierced lug-handles have been attached to the sides of the vessel at the shoulder. Some earthly encrustations remain on the surface and chipping to the base. Slight pitting to the surface, consistent with the age of the piece. Roman pottery was used for utilitarian purposes and widely produced throughout the empire in specialised workshops. This led to the development of distinctive forms, blending local and Roman decorative traditions and production styles. A broad division between ‘coarse’ and ‘fine’ ware is normally used to classify the wide range of Roman vessels; the former being used for storage and transportation purposes, the latter comprising serving vessels or tableware with intricate relief or painted decorations. Fine wares were used for more formal occasions and can be distinguished by their thin walls and glossy surface. Coarse wares usually had thicker walls to withstand rough use in kitchens and other areas. They were cheaper items and had plain surfaces. Slaves and those in poverty would usually only be able to afford coarse for their table ware instead of fine wares. Measurements: H 12.5cm X W 10cm Provenance: Ex S.M private collection, London, acquired by descent 1970-99. N.B. Delivery may be longer due to the busier period and we do not guarantee delivery before Christmas. Items paid for after the 19th December will be shipped after the New Year (week commencing on the 5th January 2026). **There will be an additional fee incurred for returned shipments due to buyer’s non-response to customs enquiries and/or unsuccessful delivery attempts.**