Patere

Patere refers to a type of Roman shallow dish or plate, typically made of pottery or metal. These objects served various purposes in ancient Roman households and were often found in domestic settings. Their exact function could vary, but they were commonly used for serving food, as stands for smaller vessels, or as components of larger decorative arrangements.

The size and material of patere could differ significantly. Smaller patere might have been used as individual plates for serving portions of food, while larger ones could have functioned as platters or serving dishes. They were often made from common materials like earthenware, but more elaborate versions crafted from bronze, silver, or gold have also been discovered, suggesting their use in both everyday life and more formal occasions.

Archaeological finds of patere have provided valuable insights into Roman dining customs, domestic life, and artistic traditions. The designs and craftsmanship of these objects can reflect the social status of their owners and the prevailing artistic styles of the period. They are frequently unearthed at Roman villa sites and urban excavations across the former Roman Empire.