Ancient Roman Bronze Pendant - Vulva (Venus) Pendant (No reserve price)
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Starting bid
€ 1
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Expert
Selected by Ruth Garrido Vila
Directed the Ifergan Collection Museum, specialising in Phoenician and Mediterranean archaeology.
Estimate € 150 - € 200
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Description from the seller
Ancient Roman Vulva (Venus) Pendant, Circa 1st–3rd Century AD, Top Condition
This ancient Roman vulva pendant, also referred to as a Venus amulet, dates to the 1st–3rd century AD. It is in excellent condition, featuring a rich, dark patina with stunning red sand deposits, highlighting its authenticity and remarkable preservation.
•Symbolism: Representing Venus, the goddess of love, beauty, and fertility, these pendants symbolized sexuality, protection, and fertility. They were believed to invoke Venus's blessings and safeguard the wearer.
•Cultural Use: Commonly worn as personal talismans, these pendants were also discreetly used by Roman sex workers to subtly advertise their profession, while others used them as symbols of feminine power and fertility.
Condition : Top Condition with original beautiful reddish sand patina
Dimensions: 10.5 x 8 mm
Weight: 1.4 g
Provenance: Formerly part of a private European collection, established in the 1980s. A provenance document can be provided in PDF format upon request.
This rare piece is a beautifully preserved relic of Roman culture, offering insight into their beliefs and everyday life.
Seller's Story
As a second-generation history enthusiast and antique art collector, I have a deep passion for historical artifacts—from prehistoric civilizations to the Medieval era. I love connecting with fellow history lovers and sharing unique, carefully selected pieces. My goal is to find new homes for remarkable items while continuing to expand my own collection. Feel free to explore my selection—I hope you find something special!
Ancient Roman Vulva (Venus) Pendant, Circa 1st–3rd Century AD, Top Condition
This ancient Roman vulva pendant, also referred to as a Venus amulet, dates to the 1st–3rd century AD. It is in excellent condition, featuring a rich, dark patina with stunning red sand deposits, highlighting its authenticity and remarkable preservation.
•Symbolism: Representing Venus, the goddess of love, beauty, and fertility, these pendants symbolized sexuality, protection, and fertility. They were believed to invoke Venus's blessings and safeguard the wearer.
•Cultural Use: Commonly worn as personal talismans, these pendants were also discreetly used by Roman sex workers to subtly advertise their profession, while others used them as symbols of feminine power and fertility.
Condition : Top Condition with original beautiful reddish sand patina
Dimensions: 10.5 x 8 mm
Weight: 1.4 g
Provenance: Formerly part of a private European collection, established in the 1980s. A provenance document can be provided in PDF format upon request.
This rare piece is a beautifully preserved relic of Roman culture, offering insight into their beliefs and everyday life.
Seller's Story
As a second-generation history enthusiast and antique art collector, I have a deep passion for historical artifacts—from prehistoric civilizations to the Medieval era. I love connecting with fellow history lovers and sharing unique, carefully selected pieces. My goal is to find new homes for remarkable items while continuing to expand my own collection. Feel free to explore my selection—I hope you find something special!
Details
Era
Before 1400
Culture
Ancient Roman
Metal
Bronze
Century/ Timeframe
1st–3rd Century AD,
Acquired from
Private collection
Total weight
1.4 g
Year acquired
2024
Condition
Excellent condition - barely used with minimal signs of wear
Country acquired from
Denmark
Previous owner acquired from
Private collection
Title additional information
Vulva (Venus) Pendant
Previous owner - year acquired
1980
Previous owner - country acquired from
Europe
I verify that I have obtained this object legally and that I am allowed to sell it
Yes
Width
8 mm
Length
10.5 mm
Sold by
Disclaimer
The seller was informed by Catawiki about documentation requirements and guarantees the following: - the object was legally obtained, - the seller has the right to sell and/or export the object, as relevant, - the seller will provide the necessary provenance information and arrange required documentation and permits/licenses, as applicable and as per local laws, - the seller will notify the buyer of any delays in obtaining permits/licenses. By bidding, you acknowledge that import documentation may be required depending on your country of residence and that obtaining permits/licenses may cause delays in the delivery of your object.
The seller was informed by Catawiki about documentation requirements and guarantees the following: - the object was legally obtained, - the seller has the right to sell and/or export the object, as relevant, - the seller will provide the necessary provenance information and arrange required documentation and permits/licenses, as applicable and as per local laws, - the seller will notify the buyer of any delays in obtaining permits/licenses. By bidding, you acknowledge that import documentation may be required depending on your country of residence and that obtaining permits/licenses may cause delays in the delivery of your object.
