New Generation Thinkers: Clay and Collapse

Medieval historian Eleanor Barraclough heads to Highgate Woods in London, the site of ten former Roman kilns, which were operated from c40-150 CE.

Here she sees a replica kiln in action – as skilled potters create pots using historically accurate materials, tools and decorations - and hear what brought the Romans and pottery clay, to the Thames.

And she'll explore the biggest mystery in British pottery history: after the Roman's left, why did potters abandon their wheels, and return to simpler hand building techniques?

Contributors:
Monika Buttling-Smith, member of the Society of Thames Mudlarks
Nick Peacey, Friends of Highgate Roman Kiln
Shem Morgan, Senior Technician at Turning Earth Highgate
Graham Taylor, Potted History

Producer: Becca Bryers