Description:

Roman, Imperial Period, ca. 1st to 4th century CE. A sizable example of a mold-formed pottery plaque depicting a conical phallus and a set of testicles below the lower pubic region. Disembodied phallic objects like this example are thought to have a variety of uses in the ancient world, from protection against evil forces, or hung over a bed to assist in the fertility and virility of a conceiving couple, or simply a humorous symbol of masculinity within a fighter's home. It is important to note that Roman culture was diverse, and the significance of phallic plaques could vary depending on the context, region, and individual beliefs. Size: 2.8" L x 4.25" W x 5.9" H (7.1 cm x 10.8 cm x 15 cm)

Provenance: East Coast collection, New York Gallery, New York City, New York, USA, acquired before 2010

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.

We ship worldwide and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.

#181441

  • Condition: Loss to one upper corner as shown. Chipping to surface pigment, with light earthen deposits, and abrasions to tip of phallus, otherwise in great condition. Nice preservation to overall form. Previous wax seal on verso.

Accepted Forms of Payment:

American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Visa

Shipping

Auction House will ship, at Buyer's expense

October 19, 2023 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

You agree to pay a buyer's premium of up to 26.5% and any applicable taxes and shipping.

View full terms and conditions

Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $299 $25
$300 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $20,000