Within Greek Mythology, the Gorgons were but one of various triumvirates, a group of three, who had mythical powers. They were known as ferocious monsters, who had writhing snake hair, large fangs and scaly skin, most famous being Medusa. Medusa, unlike her two sisters Stheno and Euryale, was mortal. It was her mortality that allowed Perseus, the Greek hero, to slaughter her. Despite their often monstrous appearance, it was believed that images of the Gorgons had apotropaic powers and could ward off evil and bad luck. Thus, gorgoneions, a representation of a Gorgon’s head, particularly that of Medusa, often appeared on objects and buildings for protection.
Greek Terracotta Gorgoneion Appliqué
£ 595.00
A very fine, Ancient Greek, terracotta Gorgoneion appliqué. The face is moulded to depict the gorgon with her wide mouth stretched in a grin with two long tusks protruding above and below, and her tongue thrust out. The figure’s cheeks are puffed out, and the forehead is partly covered with a fringe of tight curls. The reverse is slightly concave and smooth.
Please note, the appliqué is attached to the stand. Dimensions of the Gorgoneion without the stand: W 6.2cm x L 6.7cm
| Weight | 221.7 g |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | W 9.6 x H 14.5 cm |
| Pottery | Terracotta |
