Further images
Monumental, and naturalistically moulded in micaceous clay to represent male genitalia. The surface covered in red paint, the reverse is unglazed and hollowed out. A section of the surface broken away at the upper left corner of the sculpture. A further loss on the underside of the penis that corresponds to a larger section which has been reattached, with hairline cracks that have been touched in, some incrustation and rootilation.
Whilst anatomical votive offerings, including genitalia, were common in Etruscan culture, the monumental scale of the present example is extremely rare, and to retain so much of the original red polychromy is also uncommon.
This votive terracotta representation of male genitalia, made from brownish, porous clay with gritty black impurities, likely originates from a votive deposit of a sanctuary in Etruria.
The tradition of crafting and dedicating anatomical votives was widespread in ancient Etruria and Latium, beginning in the 7th century BC and reaching peak popularity during the Hellenistic period. These offerings included a diverse array of body parts and internal organs. More than 300 sites in the Etrusco-Italic region have yielded such artefacts, suggesting their deep-rooted significance in religious practices.
Provenance
Roger Peyrefitte (1907-2000), Paris, FranceS. Nazariett, Switzerland; acquired from the above, 3rd March 1976
Art market, Switzerland
Private collection, Switzerland; acquired from the above, 1983
