Roman Phallic Pendant in Bronze

£ 125.00

An amuletic bronze pendant in the shape of a phallus. It is realistically modelled, and has an integral suspension loop.

Date: Circa 3rd - 4th Century AD
Condition: Very fine condition. Complete and intact.

SOLD

SKU: AS-3298 Category: Tags: , ,

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, as well as performing 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 even by babies and soldiers.

Weight 18 g
Dimensions L 4.9 cm
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