Slave AuctionsSlaves were displayed to their best advantage on platforms or revolving stands Some were stripped naked so the buyers could see exactly what they were purchasingPotential buyers could demand that slaves who were clothed were stripped in order that a closer inspection of the 'good's could be madeThose brought from abroad were put on display with one foot whitened with chalkEach slave had a placard (tituli) around his neck describing his detailsIf a dealer was unable to offer any guarantees about the slave's abilities or attitude then the slave was made to wear a special cap called a pillei on his headThe body of the slave was discussed and inspected at the request of the buyerA buyer could examine which part of the body he wantedThe auction would commence and the slave was sold to the highest bidder

Tituli

What did tituli contain?Country of Origin

How you were procured

Age (at least an estimation)

Skills

Desirable Qualities

undesirable attributes (more rarely)

tuus Titulus Latinus

where you are from

age (abhinc _______ annos natos)

your skills . . . use words you can find (possum + infinitive)

Valuable assets . . . appearence, physical fitness, height, etc. . . . (sum + nominative)