Book 181

Cosmetic sets are small two-piece bronze toilet implements for the preparation of mineral powders, probably colourings for the eyelids and face. Found almost exclusively in Britain, they range in date from the Late Iron Age to the 4th century. An association with fertility is indicated by the crescent shape, by overtly phallic imagery and by the twinning of male and female animal heads.



Ralph Jackson's research led to proper recognition of the type, and subsequently the British Museum has built up the largest single collection (160 examples). This catalogue includes not only the British Museum examples but also those in other museums and private collections throughout Britain. It focuses on typology and function but also considers manufacture, including the results of scientific analysis, followed by full discussions of decoration, context, distribution and dating.

Book 194

Dea Senuna

by Ralph Jackson and Gilbert Burleigh

Published 27 April 2018
The hoard of Roman-British temple treasure discovered at Ashwell in 2002 provides fascinating new insights into the ritual of Roman religion.

This is the first full publication of the Ashwell treasure since its high profile discovery in 2002, and features a detailed, highly illustrated discussion of the beautiful gold and silver votive plaques as well as the figurine of the previously unknown goddess Senuna. It will be essential reading for anyone with an interest in Roman religion, especially in Roman Britain, as well as historians and archaeologists.