Protection of Children? A Case Study from the Early Iron Age Cemetery of Quattro Fontanili, Veii

The paper deals with artefacts with a possible apotropaic function from the Early Iron Age cemetery of Quattro Fontanili at Veii. I have analysed mostly various types of pendants and beads that could have had – besides their ornamental function – also a symbolic meaning of ‘magical’ protection (e.g. as amulets etc.). They ap‑ pear more often in children’s and women’s graves, less frequently in men’s graves. The gender and age seem likely to be more important factors in the role of protection than social status. However, pendants made of precious metals could have reflected – besides their role as symbols of a higher social status – a protective meaning as well. The frequent use of ‘magical’ artefacts, especially in children’s and women’s graves, reflects the need to protect the weaker members of the society from evil forces.