dAf 52
BAUDOUX Juliette
Les amphores du nord-est de la Gaule
Starting from a systematic study of Roman amphora discovered at approximately one hundred sites in the north-east of Gaul, this research treats certain aspects of provincial economic history, regarding import and consumption of foods under the Roman Empire in the region, which, in Antiquity, was strategically situated on an important crossroad. the joining of the Rhône corridor with the "Germanie limes".
The original aspects are tested through the analysis of the morphology, epigraphy and macroscopic description of the clay material of these recipients. The observation of the differences in distribution helps us to understand the directions of economic currents over time and specific consumer habits whether in urban or rural areas.
Abstract
Abstract
1. The Background Study
This chapter outlines the geographical, human and historical factors concerning this vast region of north-eastern France, comprising five actual modern departments. During Antiquity they belonged to two distinct provinces: Alsace was attached to Germania Superior, a military district, and the Lorraine to Gallia Belgica, a civil province.
From the hundreds of sites studied, the diversity, the multiplication and the specificity of the consumption centres is evoked.
2. The Amphorae : Form, Chronology and Distribution.
For each type of product transported (wine, oil, salted meat or fish or non-identified products...) the different types of amphorae identified are regrouped by country of origin, counted systematically and their forms studied. An identification of the production sites is attempted in certain cases. The study of distribution networks particular to each type of amphora is accompanied by a distribution map of find-sites.
3. The Distribution
From information obtained on sample sites, this chapter outlines commercial movements in the region and one representation of each production country during one course of the diverse chronological phases (Augustian, 1st, 2nd, 3rd centuries). The results are compared with those of neighbouring regions. An Interpretation is presented concerning the eventual consumers of these products and on the respective roles of the army and civilian population in the local economic activity.
