Unveiling a Rare Ceramic Discovery Sheds Light on an Unexplored Roman Settlement

Uncovering a Fascinating Roman Relic

In a remarkable archaeological find, a 2,000-year-old clay head representing the Roman god Mercury has been unearthed, offering a glimpse into the ancient Roman civilization. The discovery, made at Smallhythe Place in Kent, England, has unveiled a previously unknown Roman settlement dating back to the first and third centuries.

Portable figures and statues of Roman deities like Mercury played a significant role in the daily lives of both the elite and ordinary citizens of Roman Britain. These figures were used for worship in households or as offerings in temples, reflecting the religious beliefs and practices of the diverse Roman population.

![Unveiled: The Clay Head of Mercury]

The Significance of Mercury

Mercury, the Roman god associated with fine arts, commerce, and prosperity, was commonly worshipped in Roman Britain. The recently discovered clay depiction of Mercury, made from pipeclay, is a rare find, as most figurines of Mercury were traditionally crafted from metal. The intricacies of this clay head provide valuable insights into the artistic and religious customs of the Roman settlers in Britain.

The figurine would have likely depicted Mercury standing, adorned with a cloak or portrayed in a naked form, holding a staff with intertwined snakes, symbolizing his role as a messenger of the gods.

Unveiling History Through Artefacts

Dr. Matthew Fittock, an expert in Roman ceramic figures, emphasized the significance of discoveries like the Mercury head at Smallhythe. These findings offer a unique perspective on the religious beliefs and practices of the Roman provinces, shedding light on the cultural diversity of the era.

Accompanying the Mercury head, an intact Roman pot was also uncovered during the excavation, adding to the collection of artifacts that will be showcased at Smallhythe Place. This archaeological site, once a prominent shipbuilding center in medieval England, now stands as a testament to the rich history and heritage of the region.

An intact Roman pot was also found during excavation of the site.