Close-up of a lion-headed bronze situla, similar to the one with the ram’s head.
Phrygian, late 8th century B.C. Excavated from the Big Tumulus in Gordion.

Upon closer scrutiny of the residues found inside the unearthened vessels, it was determined by Dr. Patrick McGovern at the University of Pennsylvania Museum that these residues included Calcium Oxalate which is indicative of barley fermentation, tartaric acid, which indicates grape wine, as well as beeswax compounds, which suggests a fermented honey or mead addition. The resulting “Phrygian grog” as McGovern calls it (ibid), was likely a braggot style ale fermented with barley, grapes, honey, and the potential addition of saffron for color, taste and preservation.

Situla, from the Latin for bucket or pail, is a term for a variety of elaborate bucket-shaped vessels from the Iron Age to the Middle Ages, usually with a handle at the top. Typically Iron Age situlas are bronze, and a type of libation vessel. (Libation: the ceremonial pouring of fluid, to honor a god and/or obtain his favor).

Correspondent: J.M.Criel, Antwerpen.
Source: The Distant Mirror blog - Discovery World, Milwaukee/Wisconsin.