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Grotesque figure with phallus emerging from head
Roman
Early Imperial Period
1st century B.C.–1st century A.D.
Medium/Technique
Bronze
Dimensions
15.1 cm (5 15/16 in.)
Credit Line
Gift of Edward Perry Warren
Accession NumberRES.08.32d
NOT ON VIEW
CollectionsAncient Greece and Rome
ClassificationsSculpture
Catalogue Raisonné
Greek, Etruscan, & Roman Bronzes (MFA), no. 143; Sculpture in Stone and Bronze (MFA), p. 121 (additional published references).
DescriptionA stooped grotesque figure, with his arms clutching at the chlamys at his chest. His features are exaggerated, especially his nose, and he has warts. He wears large earrings and a phallus emerges from his head. He was probably intended to be suspended with a chain as a good luck symbol or to ward off evil.
Square (casting) hole (patch gone) in back; smaller one on left buttock. Black patina, with pitting.
Square (casting) hole (patch gone) in back; smaller one on left buttock. Black patina, with pitting.
ProvenanceSaid to have been bought in Paris in 1901 [see note]. 1901, Edward Perry Warren (b. 1860-d. 1928), London; 1908, given by E. P. Warren to the MFA. (Accession date: 1910)
Note: according to E. P Warren's records.
Note: according to E. P Warren's records.