ITEM: Pendant with charms, amulets and figurines MATERIAL: Bronze CULTURE: Roman PERIOD: 2nd - 4th Century A.D DIMENSIONS: 85 mm x 46 mm CONDITION: Good condition PROVENANCE: Ex English private collection, acquired before 1990s The concept of wearing a pendant adorned with a collection of smaller objects—charms, amulets, and figurines—was a widespread practice throughout the Roman world, serving a critical role in personal protection, superstition, and social signaling. These composite pendants were not merely decorative; each attached element, known collectively as bulla contents, or simply as lunulae (crescent moons) or phalli (penile amulets) when referring to the most common types, was chosen specifically for its perceived power to ward off the evil eye (malum oculus) or to attract good fortune. Often, these objects were strung together or attached to a main pendant or brooch, creating a miniature, wearable repository of protective magic that accompanied the wearer in all facets of daily life, from the military camp to the domestic sphere. The selection of objects on a single pendant was highly individualized, drawing from a shared Roman vocabulary of protective symbols. Among the most popular charms were the phallic amulet (fascinum), considered the most potent defense against malevolent forces; the luna (crescent moon), particularly favored by women and girls, symbolizing protection, femininity, and fertility; and miniature figurines of deities like Hercules or Fortuna, invoking their specific protective domains. These items were often made of inexpensive materials like bronze, jet, bone, or even glass, ensuring their availability across various social strata. The multiplicity of charms was likely seen as a form of over-insurance, covering the wearer against a wide array of potential misfortunes and ensuring continuous divine favor. These charm pendants were especially significant in the lives of children, particularly young boys, who wore the Comes with Certificate of Authenticity and Export license If you bid outside the European Union and win the item, we will have to apply for an export licence for your country and shipping will take 3 to 5 weeks. #CollectorsFairMarch2026