Roman dodecahedra have been found in Britain, much of Europe, but not Italy. The context of use is uncertain, but some have been found in areas of military or funerary activity. Others have been discovered in coin hoards, suggesting they were objects of value. Some dodecahedra were found in baths, one was found in a theatre, another on a river bed.
Dodecahedra are usually cast in copper alloy, of varying design, size between around 4cm to 11cm diameter. The holes on each face are of different sizes and decoration varies with circles, lines and dots being common.
To date, the purpose of these objects has eluded archaeologists, but suggestions have included: Measuring device, knitting tool, metal worker practice piece, or less seriously, spaghetti measure.
What did the Romans call these dodecahedra?
How did the Romans use them?
There are no incorrect answers, as yet!
Norton Disney Archaeology Group
