RomanArmyTalk

Does anyone know the source/significance of the shape of the tabula ansata? I know they are ubiquitous, but unsure what they are supposed to represent? Papyrus scroll, tootsie roll, what?

Ideas?

Thanks,

I'm not sure anyone knows for certain, but I doubt they represent anything other than tablets. The funny-looking extrusions at both ends have been explained to me both as handles (for a reader to hold the tablet by) and places for nails (to fasten it to a wall). Both kinda make sense, but I suspect the former.

The literal translation of tabula ansata is handled tablet. Many tabulae were fixed at the walls of public buildings like templa, fora, etc. because there are making for be watched for evereyone.

Thanks gentlemen,

Thanks for the answer and the lesson--find out what the name means in Latin--it may just help! :wink: