Roman slave shackles in museums in Spain and England and the question of constant wear

Roman slave shackles from the museums of Seville in Spain and Norwich in Norfolk, England. Finds of this kind are characteristic of the vast territories of the Western Roman Empire. The abundance and character of the finds may also suggest that some of the slaves in the countryside wore shackles permanently while working in the fields. It is known that slaves in Rome far outnumbered free citizens, but according to the written sources they did not wear shackles permanently; these were rather a means of punishment or of compelling obedience. Quite so: such a dreadful punishment could not fail to make one fear giving offence to one's master.

In principle, looking at these shackles, it is easy to understand why slaves in Rome could be recognised by the black band on the skin of their ankles.

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September digest: archaeological finds, exhibitions, museums, theatre and the Church

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Roman slave shackles in museums in Spain and England and the question of constant wear

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September digest: archaeological finds, exhibitions, museums, theatre and the Church

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