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LOT 0811
Roman Bronze Artefact Group
1ST-4TH CENTURY A.D.
1 - 1 3/4 in. (38.7 grams total, 25-45 mm).
Comprising: a lion-headed nude male figure in running position; two hand pendants making the fica gesture; a wolf-head(?) shaped mount. [4, No Reserve]
ProvenanceFrom the collection of a gentleman, acquired on the London art market in the 1990s.
LiteratureCf. a similar 'Manus Fica' amulet in PAS (FindID 256624-KENT-4DA2EF).
FootnotesThe 'manus fico' (literally 'fig sign') is a gesture made with the hand, and fingers curled, with the thumb thrust between the middle and index fingers. In Roman culture, this was a sign of fertility or good luck and would have warded off the evil eye. Phallic amulets were popular items amongst the Roman army.
CONDITIONTimeLine Auctions follows a vetting process to ensure the authenticity and legality of all items, reinforcing our commitment to integrity and responsible trading. Each antiquity, antique, and coin lot undergoes thorough examination by a vetting committee of at least ten external specialists, professional trade association members, scientists, and archaeologists: Our Vetting Process
AUCTIONS:
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