A Statuette of Priapus Lot n° 52

Roman 1st cent. B.C.-1st cent. A.D.. Bronze (solid cast). H. 7.2 cm The Roman god of fertility pours a libation from the balsamarium that he holds in his right hand onto his erect penis. The legs form a pilaster, as is the case with herms. The figurine probably served as a supporting element and may have formed part of a tripod or candelabrum. The modius on his head would have provided a point of contact to which the next element could have been attached. Condition: Surface slightly corroded. Right arm with small chipping or casting defect. Formerly European priv. coll. Thereafter priv. coll. Switzerland.