Talisman

Talisman

Object name: Talisman
Date: 45-400
Dimensions:
2.2 x 2.2 mm
Medium: Silver
Object number: C00856
DescriptionBlack circular talisman embossed with a half moon and symbol of Jupiter. Found in the southern part of the Thames, London in 1846.

Jupiter, as the king of the Roman gods, often featured prominently on Roman spiritual and religious artefacts, as well as in decorations and personal adornments. Luna, as might be expected, was the Roman goddess of the moon. Sometimes Luna was considered one and the same with Juno, also a lunar goddess. The first day of a new month - the night of a new moon in the Lunar calendar - and the night of the full moon were sacred to Luna and Jupiter respectively.