ROMAN WHEEL OF FORTUNE AMULET 3RD-6TH CENTURY AD

Large compound example undoubtedly specifically related to the Cult of Fortuna. Silvered bronze as a wheel with eight raised spokes. The hub is a six spoke wheel with raised hub and above it an identical wheel. The worship of Fortuna, daughter of Jupiter, endured the conversion from paganism to Christianity with the symbol of the wheel used variously including in cathedral windows. In the late Roman period, amulets dedicated to Fortuna were common but the complexity of this example suggests active worship of the goddess. Temples and shrines devoted to Fortuna proliferated in the ancient Roman empire and the craftsmanship of this amulet suggests a provincial origin. Surface textured from burial and restored in pure silver. Mounted with an 18” sterling silver neck chain for modern wear. Gift boxed with certificate of authenticity.