Roman, Imperial Period, ca. 1st to 3rd century CE. A cast silver phallic pendant with an integral suspension loop - comprised of 85 percent silver. The form was delineated with an erect penis and testicles, as well as incised markings above (perhaps to indicate pubic hair - after all the Romans embraced realism). Pendants such as this were often worn by soldiers in the field as a sign of their manliness or by newlywed husbands hoping for virility. In addition, when depicted disembodied like this example, phallus amulets were used as what Pliny described as a "medicus invidiae" to ward against the evil eye. Weight: 18.3 grams Size: 1.25" W x 1.875" H (3.2 cm x 4.8 cm) + 26" L (66 cm) leather cord

Provenance: ex-private New York, USA collection

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#138153

Small loss, possibly casting flaw, to the penis. Tiny perforation, likely a casting flaw, to incised 'hair' detailing. Minute loss to one end of this incised section. Wonderful patina that has developed over the ages.