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Histories of Northamptonshire
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Roman Lucet

Roman 45 - 65 CE Roman and Early Medieval

A lucet was used to make braids and cords. Found at a Roman military site this is the earliest example found in Britain or Europe.

Roman lucet from Orton Waterville (formerly part of Northamptonshire and Soke of Peterborough) © Peterborough Museum
Roman lucet from Orton Waterville (formerly part of Northamptonshire and Soke of Peterborough)

A lucet is used to weave ropes, braids, and cords. This specific example, carved from an antler, dates to 45-65 CE (Roman Britain). Lucets have often been associated with Anglo-Scandinavian culture; but this particular object far predates that assumption, making it possibly the earliest known example from Britain and continental Europe. It was found within the site of a Roman military base and lay in Northamptonshire soil for 2,000 years before its discovery in 1972 to 1975.

The Roman military would have used the lucet’s strong cord and lace for a range of purposes, both practical and decorative - from creating leather accessories to tent fastenings.

This lucet is testament to the innovative people who lived their lives where we now stand; to the skills they learned and shared; and the lives of the people of Northamptonshire, who helped shape not only our county but also the wider country and the rest of Europe.

Number 22 of the objects selected for the A History of Northamptonshire in 100 Objects exhibition 2025.

Orton Waterville
Contributed by Isobel Rae Chase

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