Phallic emblems are found on a wide range of Roman objects, from amulets to frescoes, from mosaics to lamps. Such pendants were a symbol of fertility, and also performed an apotropaic function. The phallic deity was called Fascinus, from the Latin word ‘fascinare’, meaning “to cast a spell”. Charms and amulets shaped as phalluses were worn to invoke the god’s protection against evil spells and were a common piece of jewellery in ancient Rome. According to Pliny the Elder, charms of this kind were worn by soldiers and even babies.
For more information on apotropaic amulets please see our blog post: Apotropaic Art: Amulets and Phallic Pendants in Ancient Cultures
