Archaeologists in the Netherlands have discovered a remarkably preserved, 7.8-inch-long phallus sculpture carved from bone, dating back 1,800 to 2,000 years to the Roman period. The finding occurred during a long-overdue cataloging project at the Valkhof Museum in Nijmegen, where the artifact had sat unnoticed in storage for decades.
The Significance of Roman Phallic Symbolism
This discovery is notable because while Romans were not prudish about depictions of genitalia, and even used phallic imagery as protective symbols, this is the first documented example of such a sculpture being crafted from bone. Most surviving artifacts feature stone or wood. The material likely came from an animal, such as a cow or goat.
Phalluses were commonly displayed in Roman homes, often above doorways, as a ward against misfortune – a concept known as the “Evil Eye.” They also appeared on jewelry, highlighting their cultural importance. The Romans did not view genitals with shame, and the symbol carried deep cultural meaning.
A Trove of Forgotten History
The sculpture was found among over 16,000 unopened boxes of relics collected from various excavations in the Gelderland province, once part of the Roman Empire. Only about 300 boxes have been opened so far, already yielding other finds: a remarkably well-preserved “face beaker” (a drinking vessel with a face on its side) and mold-based cups decorated with detailed scenes of woodland landscapes.
The sheer volume of these artifacts underscores the region’s long history as Noviomagus, a crucial administrative and military hub near the Roman Empire’s northern frontier. The discoveries suggest the local population did not merely endure Roman occupation, but actively adopted and integrated Roman traditions, art, and symbolism.
What’s Next
Archaeologist Ilse Schuuring notes that Romans had “no shame around genitals,” suggesting further discoveries of similar artifacts are likely as the archive is fully cataloged. This finding provides a unique glimpse into the daily life and beliefs of people living under Roman rule, and highlights how deeply ingrained sexuality was within the culture.
The ongoing excavation of these forgotten boxes promises more insight into the Roman past. The Valkhof Museum’s archive stands as a reminder that even in well-studied eras, surprises await, hidden in plain sight.
