Record

Amulet

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found at Newstead, Roxburghshire

Postcard of Amulet.
000-100-037-349-C
© National Museums Scotland

Amulet

This antler amulet was found at the site of the Roman fort at Newstead in Roxburghshire. It dates from between 80 and 180 AD.

The amulet is a circular disc, cut from the base of a red deer antler. A phallic representation has been carved in relief in the centre. The antler's natural imperfections form a frilled border.

The Romans were superstitious, and used amulets and pictures of the gods to ward off evil. Phallic representations are found on a large number of Roman objects. They were thought to produce good luck and protect against the evil spirits.


Record details

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Online ID: 000-100-037-349-C
Image Rights Holder: National Museums Scotland
Project: 0098: National Museums Scotland
Project description | View all records in project
Ref: National Museums Scotland  X.FRA 1172
Date: Between 80 and 180 AD
Material: Deerhorn; with a phallic emblem carved in relief
Dimensions:
What:
Subject:
Who: Newstead Collection
Where: Scotland, Roxburghshire, Melrose, Newstead
Event:
Description: Amulet with phallic emblem carved on a circular disc cut from the base of a red deer antler, from Newstead
References:
  • Clarke, D.V., Breeze, D.J., and Mackay, G. The Romans in Scotland. An introduction to the collections of the National Museums of Antiquities of Scotland. Edinburgh: National Museum of Antiquities of Scotland, 1980, p 75. 
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