Roundel with the Head of Medusa

Over time in Greek and Roman art, the image of the gorgon Medusa evolved from that of a horrifying, monstrous creature into a more appealing, almost human representation. This high relief repoussé roundel made in the late 100s or early 200s A.D. replaces the hideous visage and fangs of early representations with an elegant woman's face. The writhing snakes of the early Medusa's hair here give way to a thick windblown hairstyle reminiscent of that worn by Alexander the Great, with two small wings sprouting from her forehead. The snakes are now confined to a single example at each temple with their tails neatly knotted beneath her chin. The knitted brows and tightly closed, downturned mouth give this Medusa a melancholy rather than ferocious expression.

A luxury item, this roundel is made of silver with gilding added to Medusa's hair and eyes. Four silver rivets in the border mark the places where bronze guides were fastened to the back so that the roundel could be threaded onto a strap, probably as a bridle ornament.