Wax tablet writing, Ancient Rome
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Wax tablet writing, Ancient Rome
Wax tablet writing in Ancient Rome. Romans using a stylus and wax tablet to write messages or make calculations. The wax layers would be encased in a wooden support. This method of writing dates to the second and first millennia BC, and it remained in use in some places up to the 19th century. This artwork is from a series of illustrated French encyclopedia volumes, published by the Epinal printing firm in the late 19th and early 20th century. The series was called Serie encyclopedique des lecons de choses illustrees (Encyclopedic series of object lessons illustrated), and this example is from a volume published in around 1900
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Media ID 6333969
© Credit: CCI
1900 1900s Ancient Rome Antiquity C Ulture Classical Cultural Epinal Forum French Illustrated Encyclopedia Invention Italy Merchant Roman Roman Empire Roman Republic Rome Scribe Stylus Tablets Writing Young Inscribing Toga Togas Writing Material
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the ancient practice of wax tablet writing in Ancient Rome. In this illustration, we witness Romans engrossed in their daily activities, utilizing a stylus and wax tablet to convey messages or perform calculations. The wooden support encases multiple layers of wax, allowing for easy erasure and reuse. This method of writing dates back to the second and first millennia BC, persisting in some regions until the 19th century. The artwork originates from a remarkable series of illustrated French encyclopedia volumes published by the renowned Epinal printing firm during the late 19th and early 20th century. Titled "Serie encyclopedique des lecons de choses illustrees" (Encyclopedic series of object lessons illustrated), this particular example hails from a volume printed around 1900. Immersed within this image is an intriguing blend of history, technology, and culture. It transports us back to the Roman Empire's heyday when togas were fashionable attire and bustling forums served as epicenters for intellectual exchange. The figure depicted here could be a merchant inscribing important details or perhaps a scribe diligently transcribing valuable information. Through this snapshot into ancient Roman life, we gain insight into their innovative writing material—the humble yet versatile wax tablet—while appreciating its enduring significance even centuries later. This artful depiction invites us to explore our shared human heritage while marveling at how technological advancements have shaped our world over time.
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