5,000-year-old artifacts on show at Royal Cornwall Museum in Truro

Recent archaeological finds from Truro, dating back almost 5,000 years, have gone on display at the Royal Cornwall Museum in Truro until the end of July.

Loaned by the Duchy of Cornwall, visitors to the Museum can now see a slate disc, with a chequerboard and herringbone pattern on two sides, which was found at Woodcock Corner in Truro.

Archaeologists believe this to be a unique find in the British Isles and the patterns are representative of those found on Grooved Ware pottery which was the first decorated pottery made in Britain.

Along with the original slate, visitors can also see a replica, made by Graham Hill. This replica and tools will be used to explain how the slate disc was made and inspire visitors to create their own slate patterns using flint tools during workshops for the Festival of Archaeology ‘Digging up the Past Day’ on Saturday July 13.

The museum is also showing some recently purchased treasure found in different parishes across Cornwall. These have been obtained for the museum thanks to the support of the V&A Purchase Grant Fund and The Headley Trust.

Amongst the treasures on display are a Roman gold amulet or charm found in Rame, down river from the site of a Roman fort, a Roman gold bracelet found in St Buryan, a Medieval bronze brooch found in Gwithian and a silver seal matrix found in Crantock.

Historical documents reveal that this seal was used by Thurston of Treago in the mid 13th century to press into wax to seal important documents and deeds.

Throughout the country between 13th and 27th July people will celebrate the annual Festival of British Archaeology. At the Royal Cornwall Museum, this is being recognized by not only the display of recent finds and Treasure, but by a series of events, which will introduce both enthusiasts and novices to the excitement of archaeology.

To launch the festival on July 13, visitors are invited to a Digging Up the Past event to try out some hands on archaeological activities.

A special evening talk by artist Kurt Jackson on July 25 will focus on the discovery of the St Just Bull, which is on display in the new Ancient Worlds gallery in the Museum. For more information and to book tickets, please contact 01872 272205 or enquiries@royalcornwallmuseum.org.uk.

The Royal Cornwall Museum is open Monday to Saturday from 10am to 4.45pm. It is closed on Sundays and Bank Holidays. Admission is free for RIC Members and anyone aged 18 or under. Adults pay £5 for an annual pass.

Source: The Packet [June 27, 2013]