6 January 2006

Brewin Dolphin Securities, the UK 's largest independent portfolio manager and stockbroker, will be the sole sponsor of a 1,800 year old Roman pan when it goes on display at the Potteries Museum in Stoke-on-Trent , Staffordshire, later this month.

The unique Roman artefact has been on display at The British Museum in London, since it was discovered buried just one foot underground, on the Staffordshire Moorlands in 2003, by four local metal detector enthusiasts.

The discovery of this Roman saucepan-like-vessel, known as the Staffordshire Moorlands Patera, has astonished experts who have been working to decipher the meaning of the elaborate decorations and inscriptions. Although the handle and base are missing, the rest of the pan is in a remarkable condition, showing much of the original coloured enamel.

The Latin engraving runs around the pan and depicts four Forts which were located at the Western end of Hadrian's Wall , as well as the name of Aelius Draco, who may have been the craftsman or the client for whom the pan was commissioned. If the latter is the case, it is likely that Draco served in the army and was perhaps given the pan as a souvenir upon retirement.

There are only two other similar vessels known, both listing Forts on Hadrian's Wall ; one was found in Wiltshire in 1725, and the other in Amiens in 1949. However, the Staffordshire Moorlands Patera is the first to list the correct ancient name for Fort Drumburgh and to name an individual.

The Pan will be on display at the historic Potteries Museum in Hanley, Stoke-on-Trent , throughout 2006. Further details can be obtained from Tony Adams at the Potteries Museum , on 01782 232577.

Commenting on the sponsorship, Max Thowless-Reeves, Investment Manager at Brewin Dolphin Securities, Stoke-on-Trent :

“The Roman Pan is a beautiful, unique and important artefact and we are delighted to be sponsors to such a worthy exhibition within our region.

“We hope that a lot of people will take time out to see the Roman vessel and visit the Potteries Museum which is also home for a number of other local treasures.”