An impressive and uncommon rectangular Ancient Roman cast-lead cult plaque associated with the so-called cult of the Danubian Horsemen. The densely arranged religious composition is enclosed within a semi-circular aedicule supported by two smooth columns. The arch is decorated with a border of egg-shaped astragali, while serpents occupy the upper corners.
The plaque is divided into four principal registers containing scenes and symbols connected with cult ritual, sacrifice, sacred dining and the cosmological beliefs of this enigmatic Roman provincial mystery cult. The precise identities and meanings of many of these elements remain the subject of scholarly discussion.
- Top row shows the radiate sun god Sol driving a quadriga, He wears a seven-rayed crown, raises one hand in greeting, holding orb and whip in the other.
- The second row shows a central goddess (Epona) holding gifts within the folds of her garment, star on either side of her head. She is flanked by two Danubian riders on horseback, one trampling on a prone male figure, the other on a large fish. Additional figures stand at either side, conventionally interpreted as Nemesis and the armed god Mars.
- The third row shows a ram-sacrifice scene (cribolium) with a standing male, a ram hanging from a tree and a man with a knife. Centrally a ritual dining or feast scene showing three peope seated around a table with a fish on a platter. To the right two naked figures holding hands, one gesturing to the table.
- The lower part shows fish on a tripod table, small object (carrot or pinecone) on a pillar, a snake, kantharos (urn), lion and a rooster.
This plaque is showing the Celtic Goddess Epona, protector of horses and a goddess of fertility. Epona was one of the few Celtic divinities worshipped in Rome itself and was widespread in the Roman Empire between the first and third century AD. During the Gallo-Roman period, Epona was widely worshipped by the military, and in particular by the cavalry.
Dimensions: ± 76,2 x 79,1 mm
Condition: subsantially complete and in good and stable condition. Some wear and loss of detail, particularly across the central figure. A small perforation is present near the centre. Signs of wear and patina consistent with age and use.
Reference: Ertl, Type B01; Malbašić B01
