Attention: due to customs regulations we can only ship inside the European Union. Please ensure you have a valid EU shipping address before placing a bid. Ancient Roman lead votive figurine of Venus, shown standing nude in a graceful pose upon a small integral base. One arm is raised towards the head while the other rests at the hip, a familiar classical stance associated with depictions of the goddess of love and beauty. The figure is rendered in a simplified but expressive manner, with emphasis on the feminine form and elegant silhouette. -> Small votive images of Venus were offered in the Roman world as personal devotional objects, reflecting the goddess’s wide appeal in both public and private religion. As Venus was associated not only with love and beauty, but also with fertility, prosperity and protection, such figures could be dedicated in temples, shrines or domestic settings as acts of prayer, thanksgiving or hope for divine favour. Height: ± 110,7 mm Condition: good and solid condition with good detail. The surface displays a pale grey to beige patina with deposits and signs of wear consistent with age and use. The figure stands unsupported with a slight lean to one side. Should be handled or displayed with care of an ancient artefact. Certificate of Authenticity: available upon request (pdf-format). -> The miniature size and softness of the lead material indicates this object was votive and had ritual or magical purposes. The colour and weight of lead is traditionally associated with the underworld and magic. A similar association can be found in lead curse tablets which were often folded, rolled or pierced. -> Aphrodite, derived from the Phoenician goddess Astarte and known in Roman mythology as Venus was the goddess of love, beauty, pleasure and fertility. In Roman society prospective brides offered Venus a gift before their wedding. Her attributes included the winged godling Eros, a mirror, cockle shell, dove, apple and myrtle wreath.