The Artist Formerly Known as Batavus: a Reinterpretation of a Graffito from Velsen (prov. Noord-Holland / NL)

Abstract

A graffito on a terra sigillata sherd found at the Roman military site of Velsen has until now been read as the owner’s mark BATAVI, »(property) of Batavus«. This article offers a different interpretation. It argues that the graffito is better read as BATONIS, »(property) of Bato«. Bato is a proper name of Illyrian origin which was especially popular among men of the Pannonian tribes. The presumed presence of a soldier from this region at Velsen serving in the Roman army is supported by other archaeological finds, for at Velsen there have also been found various parts of female attire typical for the Norico-Pannonian region.