Lot 36B
Roman, Imperial period, ca. 1st to 3rd century CE. A finely cast silver winged phallus amulet, or fascinus, an embodiment of divine protection in ancient Roman religion and magic. The amulet presents a naturalistic phallus, flanked by outspread wings, with a suspension loop above for wearing as a pendant. Such charms were ubiquitous in Roman culture, appearing as pendants, rings, relief carvings, lamps, and wind chimes (tintinnabula). Their apotropaic force lay in both the virile, regenerative powers of the erect phallus and the ability of obscenity to provoke laughter or shame, thus deflecting the malice of the evil eye. The fascinus was regarded as a medicus invidiae, a "doctor for envy," and served as a talisman of protection, especially for children, conquering generals, and even the Roman state itself. The Vestal Virgins tended the fascinus populi Romani, the sacred image of the phallus kept among Rome's most vital relics. Size: 1.2" L x 1" W x 0.5" H (3 cm x 2.5 cm x 1.3 cm); silver quality: 90.6%; weight: 9.2 grams
In triumphal processions, a fascinus was attached beneath a general's chariot to guard against invidia. Literary sources, such as Varro, also record the custom of placing small phallic charms around the necks of infants.
Experimental archaeology has suggested that phallic pendants were designed to face outward as their wearer moved, confronting misfortune directly and neutralizing its effect. The winged form, like this example, emphasizes not only swiftness but also the far-reaching, almost divine capacity of the fascinus to avert harm.
This amulet also resonates with the broader cultic associations of phallic deities such as Priapus, Mutunus Tutunus, and Liber, whose festivals openly paraded the generative symbol at crossroads and into the city to ensure fertility and prosperity. From the Latin fascinum derives the English word "fascinate," a linguistic echo of the amulet's power to enchant and protect.
Provenance: private Dayton, Maryland, USA collection; ex-private F. B. collection, Maryland, USA, acquired between 1990 to 2010
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#195831
- Condition: Light surface wear commensurate with age, but, otherwise, intact, excellent, and wearable as a pendant. Light patina and good remaining detail throughout.
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