Vases › Clipeus with the Head of Medusa

Clipeus with the Head of Medusa

300–100 B.C.

This clipeus depicts a winged head of Medusa. The head projects from the plaque; around its neck hang a torque and a knotted snake. Three over-lapping layers of scales radiate below, in the form of a stylized aegis. Two holes for suspension above the head suggest that the object functioned as an oscillum. Traces of polychromy remain on the surface.

Date

300–100 B.C.

Culture

Greek (Sicilian)

Dimensions

D: 18.80 cm

Medium

Terracotta with a layer of calcite (?) slip and polychromy (black, pink, light blue, red)

Museum

J. Paul Getty Museum

Accession Number

71.AD.255

Image Source

getty_cc0

Images courtesy of The Metropolitan Museum of Art (CC0)