Ancient Roman, Republic Bronze RARE Vulva Amulet – Fertility & Protection Talisman (No reserve price)

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13
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Current bid
€ 19
No reserve price
Ruth Garrido Vila
Expert
Selected by Ruth Garrido Vila

Directed the Ifergan Collection Museum, specialising in Phoenician and Mediterranean archaeology.

Estimate  € 150 - € 200
IT
€19
NL
€16
FR
€13

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A rare bronze Roman vulva amulet with a suspension loop, dating to circa 1st–4th century AD, described as an original/official artifact in very good condition.

AI-assisted summary

Description from the seller

A rare and evocative Roman amulet in the form of a stylized vulva, crafted as a small pendant with suspension loop, intended to be worn close to the body. Such pieces held deep symbolic meaning in the ancient world, far beyond their form.

In Roman culture, the vulva motif was not merely erotic—it was apotropaic, believed to possess powerful protective qualities against the evil eye and misfortune. At the same time, it symbolized fertility, life, and renewal, making it a deeply spiritual object tied to both personal protection and the continuation of life.

The piece displays a beautiful aged patina, with visible wear consistent with long-term use in antiquity. The sculpted form retains strong presence, while the reverse reveals its original casting and centuries of burial, adding authenticity and character.

Amulets of this type were commonly worn by both men and women—sometimes by soldiers, travelers, or mothers—serving as intimate guardians in daily life.

A fascinating and highly collectible example of Roman belief systems, where symbolism, protection, and human identity were closely intertwined.

A rare and evocative Roman amulet in the form of a stylized vulva, crafted as a small pendant with suspension loop, intended to be worn close to the body. Such pieces held deep symbolic meaning in the ancient world, far beyond their form.

In Roman culture, the vulva motif was not merely erotic—it was apotropaic, believed to possess powerful protective qualities against the evil eye and misfortune. At the same time, it symbolized fertility, life, and renewal, making it a deeply spiritual object tied to both personal protection and the continuation of life.

The piece displays a beautiful aged patina, with visible wear consistent with long-term use in antiquity. The sculpted form retains strong presence, while the reverse reveals its original casting and centuries of burial, adding authenticity and character.

Amulets of this type were commonly worn by both men and women—sometimes by soldiers, travelers, or mothers—serving as intimate guardians in daily life.

A fascinating and highly collectible example of Roman belief systems, where symbolism, protection, and human identity were closely intertwined.

Details

Culture
Ancient Roman, Republic
Century/timeframe
circa 1st–4th century AD
Name of object
RARE Vulva Amulet – Fertility & Protection Talisman
Acquired from
Auction house
Year acquired
2025
Material
Bronze
Country acquired from
Netherlands
Condition
Very good
Previous owner acquired from
Private collection
Previous owner - year acquired
1996
Previous owner - country acquired from
Netherlands
I verify that I have obtained this object legally and that I am allowed to sell it
Yes
Authenticity
Original/official
The NetherlandsVerified
450
Objects sold
94.44%
pro

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