Rare 13th century face-mask jug found in dig at former Council Chambers in Rothesay

Rathmell Archaeology Ltd was commissioned to undertake a programme of archaeological works before building work began on the site of the former Council Chambers and Sheriff Court at Rothesay on Argyll’s Isle of Bute. This was a condition of the planning consent given to Fyne Homes who are to develop 25 new homes on the site.

The buildings and their location beside Rothesay Castle added up to a significance recognised in the comprehensive archaeological dig that took place behind the site’s High Street facade in October 2008.

A previous dig at the site – in 2006 – unearthed two small sandstone walls and a hard-packed layer of mortar indicating a possible floor. This contained fragments of medieval green glaze potter and the sereis of finds prompted the latest dig.

Now – among a range of smaller finds of ceramic and metalwork – the archaeologists have found a rare 13th century ceramic face-mask jug. This will be handed over to the Crown who will decide where it will be housed. Somewhere near the Lewis Chessmen, perhaps, some way from home?

Alan McDougall, Director of Fyne Homes says: ‘We are all excited about the findings which have been uncovered on the site. Rothesay is an ancient Royal Burgh with a rich and dynamic historical past. This excavation has given us the chance to help further our understanding of how Rothesay grew and developed’.