Tell us about yourself:
My name is Nina Charami and I am a PhD student at the Department of Archaeology, University of Nottingham. My research focus is on Greek Classical archaeology and in my thesis I study the history and life of the communities (called the ‘perioikoi’) occupying the territory (Laconia) controlled by Sparta during the Classical and Hellenistic periods.
What does your role involve?
The recording of archaeological objects (portable finds) from Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire regions onto the PAS database.
What area of history/archaeology are you most interested in?
I am mostly interested in Greek archaeology and history, especially of the Classical period. In particular, I comparatively assess the archaeological evidence (settlements, sanctuaries, burials, fortifications) from Classical and Hellenistic Laconia against the ancient literary sources in order to investigate the history of the populations occupying the territory and also their relations to Sparta. Nevertheless, thanks to my involvement with PAS I have developed a keen interest in British archaeology, mainly of the Roman period.
Why did you start volunteering for the PAS?
One of the main reasons behind my decision to start volunteering for PAS was my desire to learn about British Archaeology for the first time. My research focuses on Greece but I was very keen to learn more about British Archaeology and also participate in a nationwide Antiquities Scheme. Moreover, I was excited to learn how to work with the PAS database which introduced me to the way archaeological field research is conducted in another country.
What do you enjoy most about volunteering for the PAS?
I have volunteered in a number of excavations in Greece so, for me, volunteering is associated with archaeology and the acquiring of relevant essential skills. Learning new recording techniques, attending training sessions and working with the PAS database are some of the most rewarding parts of the volunteering experience. Moreover, working as part of a great team of volunteers makes our meetings very enjoyable.
What is your favourite find from Nottinghamshire that has been recorded on the PAS database and why?
My favourite find is a Roman gold ring with a palm branch incised on the bezel, dating to the 2nd or 3rd century (SWYOR-C79F30). Its small diameter indicates that it belonged to a child or a young adolescent, possibly of Equestrian status as the precious material suggests. The palm is associated with victory but was also believed to protect and keep the bearer safe from the Evil Eye. It is a very interesting find as precious objects belonging to children are not very common in archaeological records. Moreover, this type of ring is attested in the Campania region in Italy, especially in the cities that were affected by the Vesuvius’ eruption in AD 79, suggesting the existence of a widespread tradition.
