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REVIEW BY MATTHEW SYMONDS
Vindolanda is a marvel. It lies to the south of Hadrian’s Wall, and boasts a series of superimposed Roman forts and associated structures. The Vindolanda Trust has been investigating them for over 50 years, with this volume testifying to the breadth of the archaeology. Many sites might struggle to produce 50 truly astounding objects to showcase, but Vindolanda has enough glorious, rare, or outright unique finds to fulfil the brief with aplomb.
Readers will be able to see organic objects that were preserved in waterlogged deposits, such as a wig, a wagon wheel, fine shoes, a toy sword, a helmet crest, boxing gloves, and – of course – the renowned Vindolanda tablets. More durable finds can be just as jaw-dropping, and include sumptuous brooches and gems, inscriptions, and an ingenious device for measuring time. The authors, Barbara Birley and Elizabeth Greene, have long been immersed in the wonders of the site, and are engaging and erudite guides to these archaeological riches.
50 Objects from Vindolanda
Barbara Birley and Elizabeth Greene
Amberley, £15.99
ISBN 978-1398116580
