Cockerel figurine found in Cirencester Roman dig
A Roman cockerel figurine thought to have been made to accompany a child’s grave has been unearthed in Gloucestershire.
The 1,800-year-old enamelled object was found during an archaeological dig at one of Britain’s earliest-known burial sites in Cirencester.
It is thought the bronze cockerel, which is 12.5cm high, could have been a message to the gods.
Archaeologist Neil Holbrook said it was a “most spectacular” find.
The elaborately-decorated cockerel is believed to be Roman, probably dating back to the 2nd Century AD.
According to experts, religious significance was given to the cockerel by the Romans and the artistic subject is known to be connected with Mercury, the messenger to the gods.
They said it was Mercury who was also responsible for conducting newly-deceased souls to the afterlife.
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