Tintinnabulum Bestiarius

Roman tintinnabulum
The gladiator from Herculaneum

A fascinating piece of Roman cultural history

This extraordinary replica of a Roman tintinnabulum is more than just a decorative object - it is an artistic testimony to the times that embodies the unique mixture of superstition, humour and perfect craftsmanship of Roman antiquity. The headgear, the armour, the padding on the arms and legs and even the soldier's boots (caligae) are depicted in great detail. The original, which is on display in the Secret Cabinet of the National Archaeological Museum in Naples, comes from the excavations at Herculaneum and offers an astonishing insight into the lesser-known facets of Roman life.

A gladiator in battle with himself

The central figure shows a bestiarius (a gladiator specialising in animal combat) in a highly symbolic duel: he is wrestling with his own phallus, which has been transformed into an aggressive feline predator. This unusual depiction is typical of the Roman sense of crude humour, but at the same time conceals a deeper psychological meaning.

Art historians interpret the scene as an allegory of the eternal struggle of civilised man against his animal instincts. The warrior, who is supposed to conquer wild beasts, has to fight his own untamed instincts - an ironic and philosophical statement about human nature.

Masterful craftsmanship in real bronze

Each piece is produced using traditional craftsmanship:

• Solid casting in real bronze according to historical models

• Customised production in our own workshop

• Finest details such as the muscles of the fighter and the fur of the big cat

• Five handcrafted bells with an authentic sound

The surface is given an artistic polish that brings to life the warm bronze lustre of antiquity - the way the original once shone in Roman villas. Over time, a natural patina develops, giving the piece even more historical character without sacrificing sharp contours and recognisable details.

The tintinnabulum: function and symbolism in antiquity

In Roman culture, tintinnabula (from tintinnare = to ring) served various purposes:

1. Apotropaic object: the sound of the bells was supposed to drive away evil spirits (similar to wind chimes in Asian cultures).

2. Practical use: As doorbells or wind chimes in front of shops and houses.

3. Cultic significance: Sometimes in religious contexts as an offering or temple jewellery.

The history of the find: Herculaneum and the "Gabinetto Segreto"

The original of this unusual work of art was discovered in Herculaneum, the small sister city of Pompeii, which was buried under a layer of volcanic mud during the eruption of Vesuvius in 79 AD. While Pompeii was preserved by ash, Herculaneum also preserved organic materials such as wood and even scrolls.

Due to its revealing depiction, the Tintinnabulum ended up in the "Gabinetto Segreto " (Secret Cabinet) of the Naples Museum - a collection of erotic and provocative artefacts that was only accessible to selected visitors for centuries. This fascinating collection has only been on public display since 2000 and shows the Romans' unbiased attitude towards sexuality and superstition.

As a work of art and collector's item

This replica is ideal for:

• Connoisseurs of ancient art and history

• Lovers of mythological motifs

• Collectors of unusual cult objects

• People with a sense of historical humour

The tintinnabulum can be used as an indoor decoration or, of course, in its original function as a wind chime in the garden or on the balcony.
If you want to hang the tintinnabulum outdoors, you have two options:

• Protection with clear varnish - permanently preserves the golden bronze colour from the effects of the weather

• Natural patina - allows wind and rain to transform the bronze in its very own way, just like antique originals once did

Both versions have their own special charm - the first preserves the timeless elegance, the second gives the piece a very personal history.

Technical details:

• Material: High-quality bronze (solid cast)

• Finish: Polished, warm bronze lustre

• Dimensions: approx. 200 x 90 x 50 mm

• Weight: approx. 420 g

• Scope of delivery: Figure with 5 bells, hanging device and certificate

Why this piece is so special:

✔ Historically inspired based on museum artefacts
✔ Unique conversation piece with fascinating symbolism
✔ High-quality craftsmanship - not an industrial mass product
✔ Magical charisma through the combination of art and superstition

Discover this extraordinary piece of Roman history and bring the wit and wisdom of antiquity into your home! Each piece is unique because it is handmade - just like the original 2000 years ago.

Please note: Due to the handcrafted process, there may be slight variations in shape and patina, which emphasises the character of genuine craftsmanship.