<b>Bronze and Silver in Roman Daily Life</b>

<p>Vast quantities of bronze Roman artifacts have survived to this day. The importance of bronze throughout the Roman world is clearly evidenced by the myriad of uses to which this versatile material was put. These included:

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• <ul>pots and pans, lamps, keys, and mirrors for everyday living </ul>

• <ul>belts, buckles, belt fittings, horse trappings, and arms and armour</ul>

• <ul>brooches (fibulae) and pins for fastening cloaks and clothing</ul>

• <ul>bronze statues for official and religious purposes</ul>

<p>The Romans used silver for practically the very same reasons we use this precious metal today. Their coinage was made from silver, and during times of inflation, it was regularly debased.</p>

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The finest Roman silversmiths used silver to fashion high-quality wares. Prosperous households were expected to own and proudly display large sets of expensive silver dishes and vessels for eating and drinking. Artisans also made all sorts of fine jewellery and figurines from the metal. </p>