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Gorgoneion Antefix (Ornamental Roof Tile)

c. 500 BCE
Terracotta (mold-made)
height: 24.5 cm (9 5/8 in.)
Leonard C. Hanna, Jr. Fund 2021.3
Location: 102D Pre-Roman
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Did You Know?

The Gorgoneion represents the decapitated head of Medusa, most famous of the three Gorgon sisters.

Description

This mold-made terracotta antefix, a type of ornamental roof tile, takes the form of a Gorgoneion, a disembodied Gorgon head. Nearly circular in shape, it features bulging, almond-shaped eyes and a grinning mouth with wide tongue and sharp teeth or tusks. S-shaped serpents surround the head, some standing tall. Traces of pigment suggest a more vivid original appearance, perhaps considered both terrifying and protective.
Gorgoneion Antefix (Ornamental Roof Tile)

Gorgoneion Antefix (Ornamental Roof Tile)

c. 500 BCE

Greek/South Italian, Taranto

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