Roman wire wrapped Mudlarked sherd pendant

Historical Information

Type: Black Burnished Ware 2 (BB2)
Fabric: Fine to medium-grained, hard-fired, dark grey to black fabric with sparse fine quartz inclusions; occasional iron-rich flecks. Surface usually burnished, giving a slight sheen.
Date: Mid-2nd Century AD – 4th Century AD
Find Location: Essex, UK (Thames Estuary)
Extra Information:
BB2 was produced in the Thames Estuary region (Kent/Essex) and was widely traded across south-east Britain. Forms include dishes, bowls, and jars, often decorated with lattice or arc burnishing patterns. The ware was used for both cooking and serving and was prized for its durability and distinctive dark, polished finish.

In Roman daily life, these vessels were common in both civilian homes and military sites. They were used for preparing stews, baking bread, and serving meals at the table. Their tough fabric could withstand repeated heating, making them ideal for use directly over a hearth or in an oven.