170 RECENT EXCAVATIONS Al BIRRENS. 
single line appears on the fragment (fig. 20, plate IIla.). Fig. 19 
presents analogous ornament of a bolder and more complex de- 
sign; and the pelta (fig. 24) derives its form from depressions 
somewhat equivalent. 
This peculiar form of enrichment, which possesses nothing in 
common with the more ancient Roman ornamentation, but appears 
to have been much and widely applied during the decadence of the 
style, is interesting as containing the germs of some characteristic 
forms of medizval decoration. The baluster pillars represented on 
the disciplina altar also accords with forms found in connection 
with early medieval work in this country. Some importance may 
therefore attach to these meagre details, as reflecting a ray of 
light amid the semi-darkness which enshrouds the history of the 
art during the early part of the Christian era, The altars and other 
accessories of the station appear to belong to a time much later 
than the date of the historical tablet, unless it is allowed that the 
period of decadence commenced earlier than is generally supposed. 
The fragments, nevertheless, exhibit some excellent workmanship. 
The dressing of the fragment fig. 19, plate IIIA. in particular is 
an example of deft-handed use of a well-tempered and sharp 
chisel. 
The station appears to have been laid out according to rule, 
and with a view to symmetry and utility. The structural methods 
are purposelike; much of the workmanship displays skill, taste, and 
care; and strength and endurance characterise the buildings, while 
they were not devoid of architectural design and adornment. 
Nothing has been found recognisable as a mason’s chisel, but 
the tooling on the dressed stones and numerous markings formed 
in sharpening the points afford evidence of their variety. 
Of the several branches of building, mason work—the 
materials of which are the most durable —is best repre- 
sented with stone-carving, sculpture, and brick-making. All 
wood work has perished. Iron has proved incomparably less 
durable than stone, and the remains of such work are only shape- 
less masses of rusty metal. Slater work is evidenced by a solitary 
fragment of a roofing tile, and plumber work by a few cuttings 
of lead. The place has yielded no evidence of plaster work ; but 
the existence of numerous fragments of window-glass speaks of the 
olazier. 
