Cochlear, Roman spoon made of brass
In general, the spoons of Roman antiquity can be divided into two basic types:
While the ligula (pl. ligulae) had a handle with a rounded end or ornamental knob and a rather generous, often oval spoon bowl (called a spoon), the cochlear (pl. cochlearia) was characterized by a straight handle with a pointed end and usually had a smaller spoon.
It is believed that cochlearia were eating spoons. Numerous archaeological finds prove that these skewers were in use for many centuries - in a wide variety of shapes and materials - as table cutlery. Due to their special shape, they were not only used as egg or snail spoons, but were also perfectly suitable for eating many other foods and dishes. While the front part was used for spooning sauces, desserts and the like, the pointed end could be used as a fork substitute (similar to an awl or eating spike) for spearing pieces of fruit, vegetables, meat and other food.
This reproduction of a cochlear spoon with a rather flat round lobe (circular shaped bowl) is made of brass and fitted with a sharp point. This beautiful piece of Roman cutlery is great for Living History purposes and is a nice addition to any Roman reenactor's kit.
Details:
- Material: brass
- Total length: ca. 14,5 cm
- Diameter of the spoon: approx. 2,5 cm
Legal notice:
Not suitable for direct contact with food.
