Tintinabulum Gladiator

Small terracotta bell depicting a Thracian gladiator.

Inspired by a Roman piece found in Cadiz (Spain)

Measurements: Maximum diameter 5.0 cm, height 10.5 cm.

In ancient Rome, a tintinnabulum (or tintinnum) was a wind chime or a set of bells. They had multiple functions. Some of them were related to magical ceremonies, such as warding off demons, warding off hail, predicting fortune, and easing labor pains, among others.

The tintinnabulum also acted as a door amulet. They were hung near the thresholds of a shop or house, under the peristyles (around the inner courtyard or garden) next to the room, or the venereum, where the wind would cause them to tinkle. They were also rung as bells by tying a series of them to a cord attached to a bell-handle.

This is the figure of a Thracian gladiator, with a helmet, square shield and short sword with a curved blade, typical of the Thracian gladiator.

This bell is inspired by a Roman piece found in Cádiz, Spain, dating back to the 1st century AD. It comes in a hand-painted cardboard box and includes an explanation. Our reproduction is fully functional. The figurine can move its legs and emits a soft chime.

*It can be a great gift for Roman Empire fans, archaeologists, or to hang on the Christmas tree.