Fact File Week 1

The inner vessel looks to be glass and the outer vessel looks to be composed of ceramic tiles. These were purposely designed and made for hold the glass vessel safely and securely inside. They may also have been small trinkets and or ornaments added inside to accompany the body. This would indicate that the family had wealth and were perhaps high-status individuals in the society of the day.

The Funeral Week 1

From the nature of the bones, the uniformity of colour indicates that the temperature of the burn was even or regulated and well maintained throughout the cremation. This might imply that the funeral pyre had been a professional affair and that a good supply of fuel had been provided to burn up the body. This implies that COL_20 was most likely a high-status individual.

Characteristics Week 2

From the shape of the mastoid process COL_20 is male. The pathology of the vertebrae indicates over 40 years of age. The degradation of the bone indicates limited mobility and the high probability of discomfort and pain if moving. All despite being of a wealthy disposition.

Paleopathology Week 2

COL_20 suffered from arthritis. As bone was once living tissue comprising an outer layer periosteum and an inner layer the ostium it can give the investigator an insight to COL_20’s life. The impact of repetitive action the effects of climatic conditions especially of damp can lead to arthritis. Inflammation of the joints and of the bones in general. This could manifest as furring of the bones especially in the joints.

Occupation of COL_20 Week 2

COL_20 was most likely a career soldier, who likely finished as a high-ranking officer and possibly a politician after military service. The lifestyle, combat and weather conditions have all had an impact on these bones.

Strontium Isotope Analysis Week 2

Indications are that COL_20 was not born in Britain, rather the son of migrants from Europe either Germany or Belgium. COL_20 may have been born and raised there. The son of perhaps a merchant who later migrated to Britain. The lead funeral urn indicative of a high status individual possibly a politician or a merchant.

Grave Goods assessment Week 2

Most likely the result of Chemical residue analysis; there was evidence of sweet-smelling substances. This may have been part of the funeral pyre processor else and indication of a tribute from family members at the funeral. Coniferous resin from north western Europe may reflect CO_20’s heritage. The presence of Frankincense might indicate that a wife or family member was from the wider Roman Empire possibly from the Middle East or Southern Arabia.