A fine Roman bronze phallic amulet with an integral rectangular suspension loop present through the middle. The piece has been formed into a phallic shape on one side and a manus fica on the other side. An incision has been used to decorate the head of the phallus. These pendants were seen as symbols of fertility to the Ancient Romans. The phallus was usually shown erect and worn so that the tip of the charm was pointing outward, away from the wearer. The manus fica (fig hand) was an obscene hand gesture, made by positioning the thumb between the index and middle fingers. Thought to represent female genitalia, it makes a fitting accompaniment to a phallus amulet. It was thought that the emotion, laughter or shame elicited from the charm would ward off the evil eye. These pendants were associated with the phallic deity, Fascinus, from the Latin word 'fascinare' meaning 'to cast a spell.' Romans would gift these pendants to generals after victory, the charms would be placed under their chariots for protection. These phallic charms were common among Roman jewellery and were even thought to be given to babies and soldiers. Measurements: L 5.5cm x W 1.5cm Provenance: Acquire in the 1990s. Ex Cambridgeshire, UK, collection.