Finds from tombs in Calabria and the region of Basilicata (7th-4th century B.C.) are characterized by an unusual richness of amber. On the pre-Roman inhabitants these amber amulets had a magical and protective character. At that time people believed that the light caught by amber accompanied the deceased on their journey. The wonderful exhibition "Zauber in Bernstein" (see Christoph Reusser, exhibition catalog), which was presented in many European countries, showed works of art in miniature format of refined production. Wonderful pendants in the shape of a female head and winged sphinx originate from the region of ancient Italy "Basilicata". These figures symbolized the abduction of mortals to the afterlife.
Latronico (Basilicata region) Amber pendant in the shape of a female head in profile, second half of 5th century BC (Photo: UZH)
Melfi (Basilicata region) Amber pendant with sphinx, 5th century BC (Photo: UZH)
Literature:
Faya Causey, Amber and the Ancient World, Paul Getty Museum, Los Angeles, 2011
Christoph Reusser, Ausstellungskatalog: Archäologisches Institut Zürich: Zauber in Bernstein, 2011