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Phallus with Greek Inscription to Hermes

Unidentified Artist2nd century CE - 3rd century CE

Harvard Art Museums

Harvard Art Museums
Cambridge, United States

This depiction of male pubis, penis and scrotum is hollow on the back and would have been attached to something via the iron rivets in the corner and the third attachment hole located in the bottom of the scrotum. The flaccid penis is bulbous closer to the body and tapers toward the circular tip; there is no indication of pubic hair. Located above the penis, the simple and slightly irregular incised lettering reads: “To Hermes the highest of the gods”.

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  • Title: Phallus with Greek Inscription to Hermes
  • Creator: Unidentified Artist
  • Creator Lifespan: 1/1
  • Date: 2nd century CE - 3rd century CE
  • Technique: Cast, lost-wax process
  • Physical Dimensions: w5.0 x h6.2 x d2.7 cm
  • Period: Roman Imperial period
  • Credit Line: Harvard Art Museums/Arthur M. Sackler Museum, Transfer from the Alice Corinne McDaniel Collection, Department of the Classics, Harvard University
  • Creation Place: Ancient & Byzantine World/
  • Type: Sculpture
  • External Link: Harvard Art Museums
  • Medium: Mixed copper alloy
Harvard Art Museums

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