Roman Penis / Phallus

Details

We have based this votive phallus on one featured in an article by the Science Museum Group, a group of five eminent British museums. 

This replica represents a penis with the scrotum missing and dates from 200 BC to 200 AD. Votive penises are a common form of votive from this period, but their style and details can vary greatly depending on the ailment the sufferer was trying to gain relief from and the stylistic choices made by individual potters. 

Archaeological digs throughout the Roman world have unearthed votive penises, and these fascinating objects can be seen in collections throughout Britain, including at Vindolanda, The Science Museum and The Wellcome Collection. So why not add one to your collection? 

Context 

Votive offerings in the form of human body parts have been found in their thousands across the ancient world. These ritual objects were left at healing sanctuaries and religious sites as offering to the gods. One presumption is that they were left hoping to conjure divine intervention during instances of illness, injury and disease. They also may have been left as thanks after the event to honour the gods whose intervention was gratefully received.  

The effectiveness of these offerings is unknown, but their popularity as a form of health care is undeniable. I personally prefer to rely on the hard-working folks of the NHS. 

 Materials

White earthenware 

Dimensions

Approx. 180 mm high, 40 mm diameter 

Production

This replica Roman pot was hand-made in Northumberland by Potted History, based on an original artefact. It has been fired to a temperature between 800 & 1000 Centigrade to emulate the same techniques the original potters would have employed nearly two thousand years ago. This process often results in variations of the surface colour and texture, as is shared with the original Roman Pottery, giving each piece its unique character. This item is not glazed and will therefore have a porous surface. 

Health and Safety

This item is only for decorative use. 

It is made of fragile ceramic material that can break to create sharp edges, and, as stated above, it is porous and will, therefore, be slightly absorbent. Under no circumstances should you get creative with the use of this decorative votive. Do not think outside the box with this one. Do not use your imagination. Just put it on a shelf and enjoy looking at it.  

Postage

All items are sent using a second-class postal service. If you wish to have an item sent first class, please contact us for a quote. Many Thanks