Ложка

Ложка (лат. cochlear) - приспособление для приема пищи с ручкой и округлой частью с углублением из металла или дерева. Изготавливались обычно из железа или драгоценных сплавов - меди, серебра или золота. Также существовали богато украшенные и складные варианты.

Наиболее украшенные и сложные по конструкции античные ложки принадлежат римской цивилизации. Складные механизмы, а также объединение ложек с другими инструментами для приема пищи (к примеру вилками или ножами), присущи именно им.

Кроме складных, были и сборные ложко-ножи. Примером может служить ложка с пантерой из музея Метрополитена, Нью-Йорк, №17.192.254. Она была изготовлена из медного сплава с применением серебрения и чернения. Имела размеры 12.3х2.5х1.6 см. Найдена в северной Франции. Предполагается, что зазор на конце рукоятки служил для вставки лезвия и она могла функционировать и как ложка, и как нож.

Spoons in Ancient Rome came in various shapes and sizes, adapted for different culinary purposes:

• Cochlear – the most common type of spoon, had a small, slightly oval or rounded bowl and a long thin handle. It was used for eating, especially liquid foods like soups and porridges. In some cases, the handle of the cochlear ended in a pointed tip, which allowed it to be used for extracting food from shellfish or eggs.

• Ligula – a larger and deeper version of the spoon, resembling modern table spoons. It was used for eating solid or thick dishes. The ligula often had a short and wide handle, making it convenient to use.

• Cochlearum auri – golden spoons, intended for aristocracy and wealthy citizens. These spoons could be richly decorated with engravings, inlays, or even precious stones.

• Folding spoons – a special type of spoon that could be folded for easy transportation. Such spoons were used by travelers or soldiers who needed compact and practical utensils.

Spoons in Ancient Rome were used not only for eating but also for other purposes. For example, small spoons were often used for measuring medicinal substances, spices, or other small kitchen ingredients. Spoons with pointed handles could be used for piercing fruit or extracting food from small containers.

Roman spoons were an important element of table setting, especially in the homes of noble Romans, where dining traditions were cultivated to an art form. Spoons, like other tableware, reflected the host's status and could be a source of pride.

Spoons are often depicted in ancient Roman frescoes, mosaics, and reliefs, indicating their significance in daily life. During archaeological excavations in Pompeii and Herculaneum, many spoons were found, many of which were well-preserved due to volcanic deposits. These findings give us an idea of the diversity of forms and materials of spoons used in Ancient Rome.

One of the most interesting archaeological artifacts are silver spoons with inlays found in the tombs of noble Romans. These spoons not only served a utilitarian purpose but also symbolized wealth and status.

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Античные военные походы, Вилка, Нож

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