Bronze Hand of the Sabazios Cult

Culture: Roman

Period: 2nd-3rd century A.D.

Material: Bronze

Dimensions: 10.7 cm high

Price: Sold

Ref: 3343

Provenance: In a German private collection since the early 1980s.

Condition: Intact

Description: Cast bronze hand which was used in the Sabazios cult. Thumb, index- and middle finger are raised in the benedictio latina gesture. A volute krater is depicted in relief on the back of the hand. The Sabazios cult initially originates from Asia Minor and Thrace, and also spread out in the western half of the empire during Roman times. The ritual acts were orgiastic and were solely held during the night. These Sabazios hands, which were affixed to standards, were also used during these ceremonies. Sabazios was worshiped as the representative of the thriving life of nature that after decay always resurrects.