Lot 126
126
FIVE ROMAN BRONZE AMULETS
FIVE ROMAN BRONZE AMULETS

CIRCA 1ST-2ND CENTURY A.D.

Details
FIVE ROMAN BRONZE AMULETS
circa 1st-2nd century a.d.
Each complex amulet incorporating the phallus on the right, the male genitalia at the center, and mano fica to the left, the fisted hand with the thumb thrust between the index finger and middle finger, surmounted by a large suspension loop
3.1/8 in. (7.9 cm.) long for the largest (5)

Lot Essay

The mano fica gesture has often been thought to represent either female genitalia or the act of intercourse. When combined with the phallus and male genitalia, a potent apotropaic device is created. For a discussion of the type see pp. 72-74 in Johns, Sex or Symbol? Erotic Images of Greece and Rome.