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Pictured here is a larva convivialis, from Wellcome Images. A very rare example of memento mori, given almost as an equivalent to the modern party favor to attendees at a Roman feast or banquet.
Although given out during what was most likely a festive or celebratory affair, the Romans were still reminded of their mortality through this token.
This example is crafted from bronze and is articulated. For some unknown reason on this particular skeleton, the right leg has been substituted for a left arm. It dates from 199 BCE – 500 BCE.
Source: Wellcome Images
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