Line drawing of the Topsham chariot race cup

These pieces of a rare type of globular cup with mould-blown decoration showing chariot racing were found at Topsham in 1933. The line drawings show the designs, with a restoration of the full scene below. The three triangles at the right edge of the fragment are the finishing post. Cresces, to the right, has won the race and is holding a laurel wreath. Above him are the words CRESCES AV, meaning Hail Cresces. Behind him is Pyramus, above whom are the words PYRAME VA, meaning Pyramus goodbye. The cup dates from c. AD 55-75.

Acknowledgments: RAM Museum