What does the term "cumerus" refer to in the context of a Roman marriage?

The term "cumerus" in the context of a Roman marriage refers to a basket or container that typically held household utensils or provisions. This item symbolized the bride's role as the new manager of her household and carried auspicious connotations associated with fertility and prosperity for the couple. It was a tangible representation of the resources that the couple would need as they began their life together, embodying the domestic responsibilities that the bride would undertake.

In Roman society, items such as the cumerus were often part of the marriage ceremony or subsequent celebrations, emphasizing the themes of unity and the importance of the household in Roman culture. Understanding this term illustrates the blend of social, economic, and familial responsibilities inherent to Roman marriages, highlighting the cultural significance placed on domestic life.