The Medieval Craftsman: Making the Dice

A pair of medieval dice may seem like a simple object—but each one tells a remarkable story.

In this episode of Medieval Morsels, we step inside the workshop of the medieval craftsman to explore how dice were made from bone, antler, ivory, and other materials. Discover the skill required to create a perfectly balanced gaming die and learn why these tiny objects have become invaluable to archaeologists studying everyday life in the Middle Ages.

We'll examine fascinating discoveries from excavations in London, York, and Novgorod, revealing how dice were used by merchants, knights, sailors, students, and nobles alike. Along the way, we'll uncover what the materials, craftsmanship, and wear patterns of surviving dice reveal about medieval trade, social status, and rec ...