Lot 82
Roman, Imperial period, ca. 1st to 3rd century CE. A pair of ancient Roman bronze fascinus amulets, each embodying the apotropaic power of the phallus in distinct and imaginative forms. One amulet depicts a double phallus, with two shafts extending outward from a central base above rounded testicles, a suspension loop rising from the top for attachment. The second amulet is cast as a winged phallus, its shaft projecting forward while feathered wings spread widely to either side, a dynamic rendering that suggests speed, protection, and divine potency. In Roman culture, phallic amulets known as fascina were carried or worn to avert the evil eye and guard against misfortune. Their exaggerated and often fantastical forms drew upon the generative and protective symbolism of male fertility, transforming the phallus into a sacred emblem of health, prosperity, and warding power. The addition of wings evoked movement and divine favor, while the doubling of form amplified potency and efficacy. Size of larger (double phallus): 1.9" W x 1.1" H (4.8 cm x 2.8 cm)
These two examples, with surfaces enriched by age and burial, represent the inventive variety of Roman apotropaic bronzes, talismans that bridged personal adornment and spiritual safeguard.
Provenance: private Dayton, Maryland, USA collection; ex-private F. B. collection, Maryland, USA, acquired between 1990 to 2010
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#195844
- Condition: Break to suspension loop of winged phallus inhibiting wear. Both have expected weathering to surface, but otherwise larger is intact and wearable and both are very nice with rich patina.
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