Forms of largitio and 'denominations' of silver plate in Late Antiquity: the evidence of flanged bowls

Abstract

• This chapter examines the links between Roman silver plate and silver coinage in the late Roman period broadly from the time of the Tetrarchy until the end of the fourth century. It argues that in order to fully to understand the importance of the role of silver in the late Roman period, a holistic approach needs to be taken to silver coinage and plate, such that they should be considered as one overarching 'denominational' system from the smallest struck silver coins (the half-siliqua) up to and including items of silver plate, particularly flanged bowls, which were also made using standardised weights. It also argues that this specific form of vessel may constitute 'private' or senatorial largitio (largesse), with the relationship between this and imperial largitio explored.