Roman bronze phallic fascinus amulet

R27

£135.00

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A bronze fascinus amulet in the form of an upturned phallus with a suspension ring above the testes. Fascina amulets were worn by young boys as well as soldiers of the Roman legions to protect the wearer from harm.

In ancient Roman religion, the cult of the fascinus populi Romani was tended by the Vestal Virgins. The word fascinus can refer to phallus effigies as well as amulets, and also to the spells used to invoke divine protection. Pliny called the fascinus a medicus invidiae, a “doctor” or remedy for envy or the evil eye.

Culture
Roman, 1st to 3rd Century AD

Size
1.5 x 3.2 cms

Condition
Intact as shown

Provenance
Ex. private collection, Waterlooville, Hampshire, UK; acquired in the US and formerly from a deceased estate.

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