Contents of a late Saxon pit from Exeter

The contents of a single rubbish pit found at Goldsmith Street in Exeter are shown in this image. To the rear are large quantities of animal bone - principally cattle but also sheep and pig. The top of a tub or keg of riven oak is marked with a pentangle (five-pointed star) and cross - possibly a brewer's marks. In the foreground, the pottery consists principally of coarse chert-tempered and limestone-tempered pottery, with imported red-painted wares from Normandy and fine local pottery from the Bedford Garage kiln. A small hone (sharpening stone) is also present. More information on Anglo-Saxon Exeter: http://www.rammtimetrail.org.uk