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Silver vessels from Capheaton (Capheaton)

In 1747, a number of Roman silver vessels, together with coins, was discovered at Capheaton within half a mile of the house of Sir John Swinburn (Capheaton Hall). Many were secreted and melted by the workmen; those that were saved are now in the British Museum. Detailed description(a). (1)

The find was made when Silver Lane was being diverted and a hedge was being made. ('Silver Lane' NZ 035813 OS 6 inch 1938; evidently named from the find). (2)

According to Mrs Brown-Swinburn, of Orchard House, the land owner, the traditional find spot was at c.NZ 03498107. (3)

A military temple at Capheaton has been attested by the finding of ritual silverware. The finds include four ornate skillets with figures of classical gods and plain patera, and are dated c.200AD. (But) they may be plunder buried at a distance from its source. (4)

Capheaton paterae include one ornamented in relief with a female bust (Juno?), Mercury seated within an aedicula, a river god, a water nymph and Bacchus with Ariadne. The other paterae feature Hercules and Minerva as well as Concordia(?) holding a military standard. (5)
N10480
Roman (43 to 410)
FIELD OBSERVATION, Ordnance Survey Archaeology Division Field Investigation 1956; E Geary


Source of Reference
Local History of Capheaton

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