In 1830 a French farmer plowing a newly purchased field near the village of Berthouville in Normandy chanced upon 50 pounds of ancient silver. Dedicated to Gallo-Roman god Mercury Canetonensis, this rare cache of votive material escaped being melted down, and includes some of the finest ancient Roman silver vessels to survive. Following a meticulous four-year conservation project at the Getty Villa, curator Kenneth Lapatin explores the various contexts of the hoard, focusing on some of its most spectacular pieces—from the Roman table, to Gallic shrine, to modern conservation lab.

https://youtu.be/TjKlzvHn14w

About Programs at the Ancient Art Council

Programs are varied and include such activities as lectures by noted archaeologists, museum curators, and ancient art historians; exclusive tours of the Museum’s permanent collection and special exhibitions; fund-raising events; and travel programs to ancient sites and other museums. Members also receive invitations from related organizations to attend lectures ad exhibition openings. Your annual membership dues and contributions will assist in furthering the Ancient Art collection at the Fine Arts Museums.

Dates

A Roman Temple Treasure: The Berthouville Silver and Its Context

Florence Gould Theater, Legion of Honor

Kenneth Lapatin

AAC members free / General public $5 suggested donation