The first major study of spoons was Jones and Sherlock (1996) modified by Lee (2009). 3 forms are known [types 1-3] dated to the 1st-4th century AD. They occur across
Britain mostly in urban contexts.
Distribution
Spoons are found all over England with a concentration in London (Jones and Sherlock 1996). Frontier finds, for example at Vindolanda, very all in military contexts. Few spoons are found in rural contexts which appears to reflect actual consumption choices.
Forms
Cochlea, flat or shallow curve round bowl [type 1-1a; 1a(i)]. Pear shaped bowl with rats tail handle [type 2-2a; 2a(i)-(ii)]. Fiddle shaped
spoon with narrowing of the bowl near handle [type 3].
Chronology
Cochlear spoons are likely 2nd-3rd century products with some classes
falling out of use by the 4th century AD. Type 2, 2a(i) and 2a(iii) spoons are dated to the
1st-2nd century AD. Type 2a spoons are likely a 4th century AD variation. Type 3 spoons are datable to the
2nd-3rd century AD.
References
Jones, C. & Sherlock, D. 1996 Early decorated spoons from London, in J. Bird, M. Hassall & H. Sheldon (eds.), Interpreting Roman London. Oxford: Oxbow Monographs.
Lee, R. 2009. The Production, Use and Disposal of Romano-British Pewter Tableware. Oxford: Archaeopress.