Rod

This bronze rod, perhaps from a balance or an amulet, was found during excavations at the site of the Roman fort at Newstead in Roxburghshire. It was used sometime between 80 and 180 AD.

The end of the rod is in a phallic shape.

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

To search on related items, click any underlined text below.

• Online ID: 000-100-037-283-C
• Image Rights Holder: National Museums Scotland
• Project: National Museums Scotland
  Project description   View all records in project
• Ref: National Museums Scotland  X.FRA 1113
• Date: Between 80 and 180 AD
  
• Material: Bronze; with phallic terminal
  Rod / balance / part
  
• Dimensions:
• What: Rod / balance / part
  
• Subject:
• Who: Newstead Collection
  
• Where: Scotland, Roxburghshire, Melrose, Newstead
  
• Event:
• Description: Bronze rod with phallic terminal, perhaps part of a balance, from Newstead
  
• References:
  • Curle, J. A Roman frontier post and its people: the fort of Newstead. Glasgow: MacLehose, 1911, Pl. LXXVII, 1. 
• Translations:
• Related Records: