Figures, bases of columns for a Roman altar by Ralph Thoresby

Description

Two figures from a letter from Ralph Thoresby to Hans Sloane. The figures show the Latin inscriptions at the bases of two Roman altars, one of which was found at the Roman wall at Chollerton [Northumberland, England]. An accompanying letter was published in Philosophical Transactions alongside the figures, though the manuscript of the letter was not retained with the figures. The inscription of the first altar reads 'FORTVNAE COHIBATAVOR CVI PRAEEST MELACCINIVS MARCELLUSPRAE' [The holder of fortune, to whom Melaccinius Marcellusprae presides]. The inscription of the second altar is damaged, and in the accompanying letter Thoresby puts forward the interpretation 'DEABVS NYMPHIS Veteribus ET IV ioribus MANSVETAE CLAVDIAE VRBANAE, nuncapavit Hoc Lucius A IVS', a dedication from Lucius Annius to the 'goddess nymphs old and young'.

Subject: Antiquities

Published in Philosophical Transactions as 'Part of a letter from Mr. Thorseby [sic], dated Leeds, July 10. 1697. to Dr. Martin Lister, Fellow of the Colledge of Physicians and Royal Society; concerning two Roman altars lately found in the North of England: with notes on the same, by Tho Gale, D. D. and F. R. S.'

Reference number

CLP/16/29

Earliest possible date

1694-1697

Physical description

Ink on paper

Page extent

4 pages

Format

Manuscript