Thetford Hoard, Late Roman metalwork collection in London, England
The Thetford Hoard is a fourth-century Roman metalwork collection discovered in 1979 near Gallows Hill in Norfolk, containing 33 silver spoons, 22 gold rings, and numerous other precious items. The collection showcases the craftsmanship and wealth of late Roman Britain.
The hoard dates to the fourth century and was located in 1979 with a metal detector, revealing evidence of Roman settlement in Britain during the final phases of empire. The discovery illuminates economic activity and daily life as Romans prepared to leave the region.
Many of the silver spoons carry inscriptions dedicated to the Roman god Faunus, showing that pagan practices remained common in fourth-century Britain. These religious objects reveal the personal beliefs that mattered to people at that time.
The collection is held at the British Museum in London and is accessible to visitors wanting to see Roman metalwork techniques and objects up close. It is worth checking the display location ahead of your visit to confirm the items are on view during your planned time.
A gold belt buckle in the collection features an engraved dancing satyr, demonstrating the technical precision of Roman craftsmen. Such fine details remain remarkably well preserved and show how wealthy Romans valued artistic representations.
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