Alternative facts in the Archaeological Archive

Left hand of a Roman bronze statue

Could the finger positions demonstrate correct yo-yo technique? ID no. 2079

Alternative 1: Ancient Roman toy

The above object dates from the early Roman period and is made from white clay, the same type that you might have seen used to make Roman Venus figurines, or in more recent times, clay tobacco pipes. The clay has been rolled so as to curve inwards towards to centre and each end has been flattened. A piece of string would be tied tightly around the centre of the object. These objects are always symmetrical to help the object balance as it rolled up and down the string because this is a Roman yo-yo.

Wig, about 1750

This wig has a linen base & human hair in a ponytail. ID no. 29.130b

Alternative 2: Restoration fashion accessory

This object dates from the mid-17^th century. From the late 16^th century wigs were become increasingly fashionable, reaching a high point following the return of Charles II to the throne. Consequently wig making became an important industry and in order to make a beautiful wig with plenty of curls, you would need a good supply of these - the wig curler. Hundreds of these have been excavated throughout archaeological sites and occasionally you even find the initials of the maker stamped onto the ends.

Chinese tea bowl, 18th century

Porcelain was specially made in China for export to Europe. ID no. 57.51/170a

Alternative 3: East End tableware

These small clay objects are commonly excavated in late 19^th century contexts on sites around Limehouse and the East End. At this time a large number of people from east Asia, especially seamen, settled in the area, and a Chinese community began to form. Seizing the opportunity for business, clay tobacco pipe makers began producing these objects using the same clay that formed their pipes, marketing them as chopstick rests.

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