Roman Genius Cucullatus Figure

Details

This charming ceramic replica figure we have crafted is based on a discovery from Birdoswald on Hadrian's Wall. The figure is believed to represent the hooded spirit Genius Cucullatus or possibly Telephorus, although we will delve deeper into that later.

This statue dates back to the Roman era and is intriguing because it is the only single representation of Genius Cuculatus from Britain. It is more common for the spirit to appear in groups of three. The rarity of such a representation in Britain has led researchers to speculate that this smiling little fellow may have been an import rather than being hand-carved from stone in Britain. However, whether he was locally crafted or carried to Britain as a precious personal artefact, his friendly charisma draws viewers in.

Genius Cuculatus is a minor deity whose name is derived from the garment he wears, the hooded cape paenula cucullata. At this time, wearing a cucullus, or hood, was often associated with babies, children and adolescents, leading some to suggest that the cult of Genni Cucullatus was related to the young and, perhaps more specifically, the use of this figure to ward off the evil eye during childhood illness and in the tragic event of childhood death.  

The character's origin is not considered Roman but appears to have a strong Celtic influence that stretches back to its early beginning. In fact, the name Cucullatus is only recorded by two inscriptions, both from Noricum, an area of land that included most of modern Austria and part of Slovenia, in a Celtic influence sanctuary. The cult of Cucullatus spread within the Empire through areas that already had a strong Celtic influence.

The figure is often associated with Asclepius, either as his assistant or son Telesphorus, a dwarf depicted wearing a hooded cape; this creates a parallel with the figure of Genius Cacullatus, and there is some debate as to which deity this stone-carved figure represents. Regardless, both deities are connected with health and healing. We hope that having this replica smiling kindly in your home will protect you and your loved ones from harm and bring you good health and fortune.

Materials

Grogged earthenware

Dimensions

Approx. 175 mm High, 130 mm Diameter,

Production

This replica has been hand-made in Northumberland by Potted History, and as with all our replica pots of history, we based it on an original artefact. Please be aware that each figure has a unique colour due to the handmaking process, and you may find the colour differs somewhat from what is shown on your device's screen.  

Health and Safety

As with all our museum-quality replicas, this piece has been fired to achieve an authentic finish. 

Postage

All items are sent using a second-class postal service. Please get in touch with us for a quote if you wish to have an item sent first class—many thanks.