Selection of Ancient Roman Bronze Phallic Amulets

£ 275.00

A selection of Ancient Roman bronze phallic amulets. Each features a rounded bronze body, moulded into the shape of a phallus. An attached spherical element has been used to decorate the head of item A, and an incision has been used for item B. Each amulet features a suspension loop at the top and a rich, green patina.

INDIVIDUALLY PRICED.

Date: Circa 3rd-4th Century AD
Condition: Very good condition. Small chip to the suspension loop of B. Some earthy encrustations.
£ 275.00
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SKU: KW-58 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.

For more information on apotropaic amulets, please read our blog post: Apotropaic Art: Amulets and Phallic Pendants in Ancient Cultures.

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Reference: For a similar item,The Metropolitan Museum of Art, item 60.117.2

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