The Excavations of San Giovanni di Ruoti, Vol. 2: The Small Finds

Richard C. Smith is a professor in the Department of Classics at the
University of Alberta.

This second published volume of the archeological research coming from
the investigation of a Roman villa site near Potenza in southern Italy
reports on some 400 objects found in the course of excavating the site,
which was occupied off and on from about A.D. 1 to shortly before A.D.
550. The first volume dealt with the most significant objects and with
the architecture of the three different villas that were established
there over the centuries. Forthcoming volumes will consider the pottery,
animal, and plant remains.

Professor Simpson, besides indicating the location and chronological
period for each of the artifacts, has divided them into 10 categories
ranging from items of adornment or dress, such as hairpins, rings, and
buckles, to items normally associated with the military in that period,
such as spurs and an arrowhead. While few coins were found and there was
a surprising absence of agricultural tools, there was abundant evidence
of literacy: pens (styli), pen cases, and even a seal box were found.
There was some evidence of pagan and magical beliefs (an amulet was
found) but no remains indicating an adherence to Christianity were
discovered.

Besides a bibliography, illustrations of the finds, and three
appendixes (including one on ancient Roman millstones), the volume
includes a discussion of coins and the local economy by R. Reece and a
section on the various lamps by Professor J.J. Rossiter. All in all, an
excellent presentation of scientific archeology.