Roman pottery vendors (figuli selling figlina output) displayed their wares on long wooden tables at the edge of every macellum: red-slipped terra sigillata tableware, plain coarseware bowls, oil lamps, drinking cups, and small storage pots. Period: Roman antiquity, 1st c. BCE - 3rd c. CE.
This display depicts a typical mid-market table: stacked bowls, a row of small cups, two oil lamps, and a couple of pitchers arranged for browsing customers. The most prized pieces - high-quality Arretine and South Gaulish terra sigillata - sat at the center; everyday plain wares filled the edges.
Painting tips
- Terra sigillata pieces: bright orange-red, glossy finish, dark wash on detail.
- Plain coarseware: warmer terracotta with sepia wash.
- Vary tones to suggest different workshop sources.
- Wooden table: medium oak with brown wash.
Historical sources & further reading
- Hayes, John W. Roman Pottery: Fine-ware Imports (2008)
- Peña, J. Theodore. Roman Pottery in the Archaeological Record (2007)
⚠ Small parts. Not suitable for children under 14.





