Roman Harpocrates pendant

Roman Harpocrates pendant
ITEM: Harpocrates pendant
MATERIAL: Bronze
CULTURE: Roman
PERIOD: 1st Century A.D
DIMENSIONS: 45 mm x 15 mm
CONDITION: Good condition
PROVENANCE: Ex Spanish private collection, bought in English auction house. Ex English private collection, acquired between 1965 - 1975.

Comes with Certificate of Authenticity and Export Licence. If you are from outside the European Union, we will have to apply for the export licence again for your country, this takes 3 to 5 weeks and has a cost of 5% of the hammer price, this amount will be added to the final invoice.

Harpocrates pendants from the Roman period represent a fascinating blend of Egyptian and Greco-Roman religious symbolism. Harpocrates, originally the Greek version of the Egyptian god Horus, was depicted as a child and was associated with secrecy, silence, and protection. In Roman times, this deity was often portrayed in amulets and pendants as a youthful figure, with his finger to his lips, symbolizing silence and mystery. These pendants were typically worn as protective charms, believed to ward off evil, especially the "evil eye, " and bring good fortune to the wearer. Crafted from materials like gold, silver, bronze, and even faience, these pendants were popular not only for their religious significance but also for their aesthetic appeal.

The image of Harpocrates as a child with his finger to his lips was especially potent in Roman culture, where it symbolized discretion and the power of hidden knowledge. The Romans, who had incorporated many Egyptian deities into their pantheon, embraced Harpocrates as a symbol of silence and wisdom. His association with secrecy also tied into the mystery religions of the Roman Empire, such as the cult of Isis, where Harpocrates was seen as a protector of sacred mysteries. In these contexts, wearing a Harpocrates pendant might have symbolized a personal connection to divine secrets or a role in one of the many secretive religious groups that flourished during the Roman period.

Additionally, Harpocrates pendants were often associated with fertility and new beginnings. As the youthful form of Horus, the child god of the sun, Harpocrates symbolized the dawning of new life and the potential for growth and regeneration. This made his image popular among those seeking protection for children or hoping to ensure fertility and safe childbirth. The popularity of Harpocrates pendants across the Roman Empire highlights the cross-cultural exchange between Egyptian, Greek, and Roman traditions, with the image of the god evolving to reflect Roman values while retaining its roots in Egyptian religion.

Measurement:

1.5 x 4.5 cm