|
Date: |
|
Description: | Copper alloy (bronze) casting waste of uncertain date; most probably Roman (100-400 AD). However, due to the lack of direct context and the continuation of casting styles this artefact could be dated from the Roman or Medieval - Modern periods (c. 100 - 1800 AD). This fragment is from the neck (funnel / well) of a composite probably two part mould. The casting waste is conical; being oval in plan and D shaped in cross section. In profile the edges of the waste taper relatively evenly. The base of the casting waste is irregular with the remains (nipples) of two runners / casting jets being present. These jets / runners have been cut or clipped to remove it from the larger artefact. The sides of the well show no evidence of casting seams although they are also similarly abraded. The upper surface is pitted and rough, although heavily patinated: at the centre of the upper surface is a slight depression. This surface is commonly seen where the metal is poured into the neck of the mould and shrinks on cooling. The casting waste is a mid green colour with an abraded and corroded patina that covers all surfaces. Casting waste is very hard to date in isolation but the patina and form might suggest a Roman date. A direct comparison has not been found. The survival of casting waste is relatively rare as it is usually recycled swiftly as a bi-product of casting.The casting waste measures: 15.8mm length, is 19.4mm wide and 18.1mm thick. It weighs 14.98 grams.
Original Image | Publisher: | http://finds.org.uk | Source: | Portable Antiquities | Identifier: | http://finds.org.uk/database/artefacts/r... | Go to resource |
|
|