Ancient Roman Bronze Erotic Phallic Amulet Pendant Of Fist And Phallus Type

Ancient Roman Bronze Erotic Phallic Amulet Pendant Of Fist And Phallus Type

It has a manus fica (so-called obscene hand that was thought to represent female genitalia) to the left side and phallus to the right side. In the centre there is a realistic representation of phallus and testicles. The back surface is unworked.

In ancient Roman religion and magic, the fascinus or fascinum was the embodiment of the divine phallus. The word can refer to the deity himself (Fascinus), to phallus effigies and amulets, and to the spells used to invoke his divine protection. Phallic pendants in ancient Rome were talismans used to ward off the evil eye. This kind of sorcery was thought to ward off primarily envy (invidia) that was targeted against the fertility of animal, crop and person. Phallus pendants were often given to babies and children to prevent curses intended to stunt their growth.

Very fine condition; Complete & Intact; a few light earthy deposits remaining

C. 2nd ~ 3rd Century A.D.

Size: W: 5.2cm X H: 2.8cm