EMF - Abstracts

Analysis of Organic Residues Associated with Amphoras and Coarsewares from Roman Britain.

Andrew Redford and Carl Heron, Bradford University

A variety of Roman amphora and coarseware sherds from sites in London, Carlisle and York have been analysed using two analytical techniques: gas chromatography (GC) and combined gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS). The assemblage included the forms Camulodunum 186, Dressel 2-4, Dressel 20, Gauloise, London 555, Rhodian, Egyptian, Verulamium White Ware and North Kent Shell Tempered. Many of the surface residues gave results characteristic of softwood pitch, probably pine in GC analysis, and this was confirmed through GC/MS with abietane-based diterpenoid structures present. Three Dressel 20 amphoras from Regis House, London were analysed revealing no trace of olive oil, though one did have a lining of softwood pitch. In contrast, results from Dressel 20 sherds from Carlisle have indicated the presence of olive oil. The significance of these results is discussed and recommendations for further study presented.

Keywords: Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry, Amphoras, Resins & Pitch.