What is the name of the gift basket exchanged during salutatio?

The gift basket exchanged during salutatio is called a sportula. In ancient Roman culture, salutatio was a morning ritual in which clients would visit their patrons to receive their daily support and protection. During this visit, patrons would often give their clients a sportula, which was commonly filled with food or money. This practice symbolized the relationship between patron and client, highlighting the social obligations and benefits that defined Roman society.

The sportula served not only as a practical gift but also as a means of reinforcing social bonds and dependencies within the hierarchical system of ancient Rome. It exemplifies the mutual benefits that patrons and clients derived from their relationship, with the patron demonstrating his generosity and the client showing loyalty and gratitude in return. Understanding this context helps clarify the role of the sportula in Roman social practices.