In 1889, archaeologists discovered a wooden doll that bore witness to a long-forgotten history. This ancient Roman toy, approximately dated to the 2nd century AD, turned out to be more than just an object from childhood.
The discovery was made in one of two sarcophagi along with the remains of a young girl, Crepereia Tryphaena, who, according to archaeologists, was unable to say goodbye to childhood and was buried with her toy.
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The young girl was betrothed to a young man named Philetus, and this is not just a guess. A ring found in the same tomb bore his name. It is obvious that Crepereia Tryphaena died before her upcoming marriage, and her most precious toy accompanied her on her last journey.
In ancient Rome, there was a tradition according to which future brides must renounce childhood before their wedding, dedicating their toys to the gods. The Crepereia Tryphaena doll became a victim of this ritual, its place being the altar of Venus, the goddess of love. This gesture symbolized the transition from childhood to adulthood, from games to responsibilities.
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But the doll itself became not only a symbol of transition, but also a unique artifact of art. Along with the toy, archaeologists discovered its accessories - a powder compact, a mirror and a comb. These items accompanying the doll indicated the care and attention that was given to ancient Roman girls in their preparation for future marriage.
According to the researchers, this type of doll was created only for girls from very rich families. Regular dolls, made from cloth or other materials, were simplified versions and did not depict anatomical details. The elaborate Crepereia Tryphaena doll had limbs that could be extended and bent, similar to modern girls' toys.
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Source: centralemontemartini.org
