DEFINING PRODUCTION GROUPS AMONG CALABRIAN WINE AMPHORAE: NEW EVIDENCE FROM THE PALATINE HILL, ROME

Víctor M. Martínez

Joint excavation by the American Academy in Rome and the Soprintendenza Archeologica di Roma along the northeast slope of the Palatine Hill have recovered a large assemblage of sherds belong to Calabrian wine amphorae. Stratified deposits dating from the late third through the sixth centuries provide data that reveal a more coherent picture for the organization of Keay Type LII amphora production. This paper presents two conclusions based on the author's study of the material. First, careful analysis of the forms, manufacturing techniques, and mineralogical compositions has isolated several distinct production groups. Each group is easily recognizable and illustrates the local character of the groups. By refining the meaning of analysis and quantification, we may begin to pose questions regarding regional production and distribution of wine in the Late Empire. Second, the broader amphora assemblage from the site offers evidence that the Keay Type LII amphorae form part of a more robust wine industry along the Straits of Messina. I speculate on the possible economic processes involved and their implications for understanding the Italian wine industry in the late Empire.

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