Ave!

Roman Bronze Phallic, Harness or Strap Adornment, 1st-3rd Cent AD.

Copper Alloy; 32mm/15.1gm

Con/ Some corrosion and loss of patina, otherwise, about As Cast.

Description/ Phallus to left and, to right, a mano fico (properly, ‘mano fica’). Such "mano fico" is an ancient obscene gesture and is also one of the better known protective gestures against the evil eye. The thumb-in-fist gesture is also an ancient representation of sexual union. Above, a flat  inverted pear-shape (17mm) with a small flange at the top. 

Ref/ None in any of our resources.

Seller's Note/ Phallic adornments as this, due to their rude nature, were attached as harness, strap, or belt decorations, by Roman soldiers.