African red slip ware, or ARS, is a type of fine pottery from Ancient Rome produced between the mid-1st century AD and the 7th century in Africa Proconsularis, primarily modern-day Tunisia. Characterized by a thick orange-red slip over slightly granular fabric, the interior surfaces are fully covered, while the exterior may be only partially slipped.
By the 3rd century AD, this ware spread across the Mediterranean and major Roman cities, becoming the most widely distributed sigillata in the late Roman period, with imports found as far as Britain in the 5th and 6th centuries. Although it remained common in the 5th century, production and trade declined afterward, continuing into the 7th century in cities like Constantinople and Marseille, before the industry ultimately diminished.
The success of African red slip ware was linked to the agricultural productivity of North Africa, evident in the distribution of Roman-period amphoras. Each piece comes with a certificate of authenticity and necessary export documents.
