Gridiron

Roman Britain, probably 4th century AD
From Icklingham, Suffolk

Cooking in Roman Britain was often done over charcoal fires on raised hearths. The gridiron was positioned over the fire and the pan or pot placed on top. This ornate example has a ring, allowing it to be hung up when not in use. Examples have been found in the kitchens of several houses at Pompeii and Herculaneum.