Abstract:

In the basilica of S. Balbina is preserved an amphora belonging to an evolved typological stage

of Dressel 2 form which shows two stamps, in one of which the cognomen Homuncio is

clearly read. The character is not known, but probably comes from a family originating in

Cisalpine Gaul, of low social standing, as suggested by onomastic analysis. Homuncio joins

other characters known on Dressel 2 amphorae stamps – Caedicia Victrix, Cornelius Pollio,

Claudius Claudianus – attributed to a 2nd-early 3rd century AD Campanian production with

rather standardized typological characteristics. However some findings allow us to recognize

other origins of the amphorae of this type, inside and outside the Italian peninsula, and a more

varied typology.

Keywords: Amphora stamp, Homuncio, ‘Middle-Imperial’ or ‘evolved’ Dressel 2, 2nd-early 3rd

century A.D., amphorae typology.