Description: A fascinating new entry in this popular series, exploring Britain's LGBTQ+ history through objects recorded by the Portable Antiquities Scheme.
Brief description: Ben Paites is one of the curators at Colchester Museums. Before this, he spent many years working with the Portable Antiquities Scheme recording hundreds of objects across Essex and London. His main areas of interest are the histories of marginalised people, with a particular focus on the Roman World and British archaeology and history. As a curator, he has produced many exhibitions, covering themes such as the witch trials and Medieval Jewish history, as well as appearing on several TV shows and podcasts talking about a wide range of historical topics.
Review Quotes: 'Ben Paites' addition to the '50 Finds' series is a well-researched and nuanced exploration of the history of sexuality through material culture.'-- "Current Archaeology Magazine, April 2025"