73

Pitcher Lid (lagoena)

Origin

Castro de Alvarelhos, Alvarelhos, Trofa.

Material

Bronze. Optical microscopy observation – tin bronze (8% Sn) with a high lead content (11% Pb). Minor elements include 0.4% Zn, 0.8% Fe, 0.2% Sb and 0.07% Ag. The microstructure is typical of this type of alloy, with lead segregated in the form of globules.

Description

Solid lid from a lagoena-type pitcher used for serving liquids such as water or wine. It has an oval shape with an extension towards the spout and is articulated by a front hinge, which would have been connected by an axis to two further projections attached to the rim of the pitcher, forming a hinged joint. The upper surface features a small ring, offset from the axis of symmetry, which would have allowed the lid to be opened and held in position during pouring.

Classification and chronology

Boester 257-258 Type | Eggers 128 / Castro de Alvarelhos - Phase IV/V

Dimensions

Maximum length: 87 mm; Maximum width: 51 mm; Maximum thickness: 4 mm; Weight: 98,8 gr.

Deposit

MMAP [ALV. 97 B1, A2, op. 100]

Bibli.

MOREIRA 2007, 139-140; 2010, 974, est. CCIX, n.º 31.