Antiquities, Islamic, and Contemporary Middle Eastern Art: Featuring Selections from the Dr. Mohammed Said Farsi Collection

A ROMAN AMULET IN THE FORM OF A HEAN, CIRCA 2ND - 3RD CENTURY

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Start price: £60

Estimated price: £100 - £200

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This delightful Roman amulet, carved in the form of a hen, dates from the 2nd to 3rd century A.D. The amulet is crafted from a pale, creamy stone, intricately detailed to capture the essence of the bird in a stylized yet recognizable form. The hen, often associated with fertility, protection, and domestic life in the Roman world, would have been a meaningful talisman for its wearer.

The detailed carving includes incised lines to represent the hen’s feathers and other features, showcasing the artisan’s skill in transforming a simple piece of stone into a symbolic object of personal significance. The compact size and charming depiction suggest it was intended to be worn or carried, serving both as a protective amulet and a personal ornament.

H: 2.5cm