Welcome to the Urban Archaeology blog. Chiz Harward provides a range of archaeological services including desk-based assessments, evaluations, excavations, watching briefs and post-excavation services, training and development work, and archaeological illustration. This weblog will carry news of projects as and when they happen as well as wider thoughts on archaeological issues, especially recording, stratigraphy and training.



Roman key from Southwark


I was recently commissioned to illustrate this magnificent Roman key from Southwark for the Portable Antiquity Scheme. The key is made from copper alloy and was originally made in two parts: the lion couchant body which is finely cast, and the key itself, also cast and inserted into the rear of the lion.
The body and legs of the lion has ring and dot, and line decoration, as well as a beautifully sculpted mane, and a rather enigmatic smile. Zoomorphic artefacts can be particularily tricky to illustrate, especially if they are laughing at you!