Детали

COLEM:1939.66

Colchester Collections

pot, phallic pot

This is a Roman pedestal beaker made of an orange-brown ceramic with barbotine decoration. It has been heavily repaired in modern times. The decoration consists of a series of phallic images encircling the body of the vessel. Sometimes colloquially referred to as a 'penis pot', it was likely used by Roman soldiers stationed in Britain. They may have shared a drink from this comedic vessel to unwind from a hard day’s march. The phallus was a common symbol in Roman culture, particularly in the form of the fascinum - a phallic charm. These could be found decorating houses or worn as metal pendants, to protect the wearer from evil. What is particularly significant about this vessel is that the phalluses are in groups of four, which is very similar to the formation of horses in a quadriga (racing chariot). With other vessels having been found showing chariot racing scenes, it is likely that the maker decided to replicate a chariot race using penises for comedic effect. The magical and protective properties of the phallus would have been an added bonus.

Roman

height: 104.00 mm