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Oculists stamp, Replica
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A Roman oculist stamp used to stamp blocks of salve (collyria), or cream, for the treatment of eye complaints. Oculists were specialist eye doctors who treated eye complaints such as cataracts. The stamp, or seal, is made from stone and each side is inscribed with what the salve should be used for, what it contains, and the name of the eye doctor or ointment maker. The name on this stamp is Titus Vindaci Ariovisti and is one of the few named Roman people from Herefordshire. The name is thought to be of German origin. On the top of the stamp is the word 'SENIOR' in reverse and on the underside the word 'SEN'. The sides read ANICET, NARD and CHLORON, the fourth is damaged. Anicetum may be another word for aniseed whilst 'Nardinum' is an aromatic plant (also known as Matweed) and 'Chloron' was a type of eye salve. Oculist stamps are rare in Britain, but this is one of two found at Kenchester (Magnis), and shows there was active medical provision in the town.
| Details | |
|---|---|
| Accession Number | 6300 |
| Date | 43 - 300 |
| Period | Roman |
| Collection | Archaeology |
| Technique | |
| Creator | Titus Vindaci Ariovisti |
| Name | |
| Locality | Kenchester |
| Locality | Magna |
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