Talking to the Gods: Votive Plaques from Roman Britain
An exhibition of archaeological drawings
March 1st - April 23rd 2016
Archaeological illustrator Craig Williams presents a series of drawings of the Ashwell Hoard, a treasure trove of some 27 gold and silver objects found in a village just outside Cambridge which gives an insight into the religious beliefs of the Roman Britons.
In 2002, a metal detectorist chanced upon a significant find: a hoard of precious temple dedications which had been deliberately and carefully buried for safe-keeping, vowed to the previously unknown goddess, Senuna. The hoard comprised a number of metal artefacts and a series of thin gold and silver votive plaques depicting the gods and often bearing personal inscriptions.
The archaeological drawings on display in this exhibition were produced for a new in-depth study of the finds, to be published by the British Museum where the Hoard is now housed. Working with pen and ink on drafting film, this unique collection of artwork not only aids interpretation of the figures stamped onto the delicate plaques, but also poignantly represents traditional illustration techniques which are becoming increasingly rare with the advent of digital recording.
Events
Family craft activity Wednesday 6th April, 1.30-3pm: All that Glitters...
Workshop Friday 15th April, 2-4pm: Drawing by Hand: An Introduction to Archaeological Illustration
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