Lot 80
Two Roman Bronze Phallic Amulets - One w/ Wings
Two Roman Bronze Phallic Amulets - One w/ Wings
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Roman, Imperial period, ca. 1st to 3rd century CE. A pair of cast bronze amulets representing the fascinus, the apotropaic symbol of the phallus widely used throughout the Roman world as a charm of protection and good fortune. Each amulet presents a distinct form: one with a simple phallic design featuring a suspension loop at the top, the other with a more elaborate configuration incorporating wings and an extended shaft, further accentuating its talismanic potency. Phallic amulets such as these were carried, worn, or hung in domestic and public spaces to ward off the evil eye, ensure fertility, and bring prosperity. The Romans believed the fascinus embodied divine generative power and offered supernatural defense against envy and misfortune. These charms were popular across all social classes, from soldiers who bore them into battle to children who wore them as protective pendants. Size of larger (winged): 1.8" L x 1.1" W x 0.6" H (4.6 cm x 2.8 cm x 1.5 cm)
Small yet powerful, these amulets testify to the pervasive role of protective magic in Roman daily life. Their enduring imagery reflects a worldview in which sexuality, spirituality, and survival were closely entwined.
Provenance: private Dayton, Maryland, USA collection; ex-private F. B. collection, Maryland, USA, acquired between 1990 - 2010
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#195850
- Condition: Both have weathering to surface as shown, but otherwise, intact, excellent, and wearable with good remaining detail and rich patina.
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| $2,000 | $4,999 | $250 |
| $5,000 | $9,999 | $500 |
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| $100,000 | $199,999 | $10,000 |
| $200,000 + | $20,000 |