Genius Cucullatus

Genius Cucullatus, Genii Cucullati (pl.) [L genius, deity of generation or birth, guardian spirit; cucullus, hood fastened to cloak or coat]. Name ascribed to cultic images from Celtic shrines built during Roman occupation. Though the images vary in size from the dwarfish to the giant, they are identified by hooded outdoor garments. Closed from neck to knee as well as hooded, the cucullus was commonly worn by contemporary Celtic peoples and implied an affinity between the god/s and worshippers. Some modern commentators perceive a phallic shape to the garment; on some surviving figures the garment is removed to expose a phallus; on others the god's phallus is used as a lamp holder. Other commentators perceive female breasts through the robes as well as soft feminine faces under the hoods. Further associations with fertility arise from the Genii Cucullati portrayed carrying eggs. On the Continent the Genius Cucullatus is a solitary figure, while in Britain they are always represented in threes (see TRIPLISM), as in the well-preserved and much-photographed relief at Housteads on Hadrian's Wall. Elsewhere in Britain they accompany the prosperity deities Mercury and Rosmerta.