CASTING WASTE

Two incomplete casting wells or jets of probable Roman and later dating (AD 43 to AD 1700).

Both casting wells are of a similar shape. They have an almost conical top tapering downwards into a flat sub rectangular section. This section is uneven with some area thicker than others. The top of each well is concave with an uneven surface.

The first well measures 79.2 mm in length, maximum width of 41.8 mm, maximum thickness of 27.5 mm and a minimum thickness of 2.8 mm. It weighs 139.6 g.

The second well measures 69.9 mm in length, 51.7 mm maximum width, maximum thickness of 30.3 mm and a minimum thickness of 2.5 mm. It weighs 143.8 g.

Together they both weigh 283.6 g.

Both wells are a dark brown colour, with an even surface patina. Surface XRF analysis has demonstrated that they are mostly Copper (Cu), but with traces of Tin (Sn), Lead (Pb), Iron (Fe) and Zinc (Zn).

Casting wells or jets can be hard to accurate date as the casting process stayed similar from the Bronze Age until Modern day. However the shape and XRF analysis is more consistent with a Roman or later date.