Roman Wax Tablet Diptych with Brass Stylus – Antique Writing Set

Roman Wax Tablet Diptych with Brass Stylus – Antique Writing Set

Tabula Rasa: Write, Erase, Repeat

This writing set is fully functional, not just a decorative prop. It consists of two wooden panels with recessed inner surfaces filled with black wax. The wood is smoothly finished and joined by simple yet sturdy leather thongs acting as hinges.

The centerpiece of the set is the solid brass stylus, decorated with a delicate interlace pattern. The stylus is designed strictly according to historical practice:

• Pointed End: Used for etching text or drawings into the wax. The light trace left in the black wax is clearly legible.
• Flat Spatula End: The flattened end of the stylus acts as an eraser. By smoothing over the wax surface, the text disappears, leaving you with a clean slate once again – literally a tabula rasa.

Historical Context: From Rome to the Middle Ages

Wax tablets (Latin: tabulae ceratae) were the "tablets" of antiquity for centuries. They were used by schoolchildren in Greece and Rome to learn the alphabet, by officials for tax records, and by poets for drafting their works. Since parchment and papyrus were extremely expensive, the erasable wax tablet was an economic necessity.

However, their use did not end with the fall of Rome. They remained common throughout Europe well into the late Middle Ages and the Renaissance. Archaeological finds from medieval cities confirm their enduring popularity. This replica is therefore suitable for a wide range of historical periods – from Antiquity and the Viking Age to the Gothic era.

Usage and Care Instructions

This diptych is an excellent choice for Living History, reenactment, theater props, or as a stylish notebook for tabletop RPG players.

How to care for your tablet:

• Beware of Heat: Wax softens at higher temperatures. Do not leave the tablet in a car on a hot summer day or near an open fire, as the wax could melt and damage clothing or the wood.
• Cleaning: Wipe the stylus with a soft, dry cloth after use to remove any wax residue.
• Refining: If the wax surface becomes too scratched after extensive use, it can be carefully warmed (e.g., with a hair dryer) to smooth it out again.

Specifications