Large Antique Jar, Dolium, Terracotta Amphora - XVII Century

Exceptional large antique jar, dolium, terracotta amphora.

Winemaking took place in this type of container, it was the wine vessel in which the wine fermented and also where it was stored and transported later. The dolium was an enormous terracotta container with a spherical or slightly ovoid shape, perhaps one of the largest clay objects used in ancient Rome for the conservation of wine and other food products. They could have a height of over 1.50 m. and contain from 1000 to 2000 litres. According to the thesis of many archaeologists, dolia were mainly used on land for the processing and conservation of wine and other products. They were often made by specialized kilns who traveled from one region to another and who relied on workshops for the production of architectural bricks. Dolia were used in food production areas such as farms or in points of sale and administration such as taverns. It is equally certain that dolia, due to their particular acoustic qualities, were often present in theaters to produce special sound effects. There is documented evidence that the dolium was, in certain periods, exploited as a container for sea transport. They were fixed in the central part of the boat, while the space left free at the stern and bow was occupied by the amphorae. This transport system, despite having great potential, did not have great success, resulting in amphorae that were much more practical and safe. High cm. 135 (including tripod) - diameter cm. 105. There is no shipping. The buyer will have to collect it personally.