Iulia Graphis : miniature e mors immatura

Abstract

This paper analyses the miniature objects reproducing pottery, household utensils and furniture objects discovered in the tomb of Iulia Graphis in Brescello (Emilia-Romagna, Italy). They are compared with similar groups found on the Italian territory, such as the Larario Puerile from Pesaro, the crepundia Terracina. Other groups of miniature objects in more uncertain contexts of discovery are examined. Over the years, the subject has been tackled by various researchers who have identified them as objects that related to the playful sphere of Roman children in the 2nd century CE and in particular to the game of dînette. This paper revises the initial hypotheses and opens up further avenues of investigation about the function of these objects and the social and gendered status of their owners.

Keywords

• alumna
• ex voto
• freedmen
• game
• lararium
• learning