Frankish Bronze Buckle with Phallic Symbol
6th-7th century A.D.. The headplate engraved with an ithyphallic penis at the centre enclosed within concentric geometric borders, three domed studs to the perimeter; the penis motif repeated in smaller plate forming part of the tongue, oval-shaped buckle engraved with clusters of vertical lines; remains of tinning; three pierced attachment lugs to reverse; repaired. Cf. The Metropolitan Museum, New York, accession number 17.191.223, for an example dated circa 600 A.D. 70 grams, 86 mm (3 3/8 in.).
with Paris Hôtel Drouot, 12 July 2005, lot 152.Private collection, Europe.
(For this specific lot, 5% import VAT is applicable on the hammer price.)
Price realized | 525 GBP |
Starting price | 550 GBP |
Estimate | 600 GBP |