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Roundel with head of Medusa
Greek
Hellenistic Period
3rd century B.C.
Medium/Technique
Silver with gold leaf
Dimensions
Height: 7.2 cm (2 13/16 in)
Diameter: 7.2 cm (2 13/16 in)
Diameter: 7.2 cm (2 13/16 in)
Credit Line
Theodora Wilbour Fund in memory of Zoë Wilbour
Accession Number60.1152
NOT ON VIEW
CollectionsAncient Greece and Rome
ClassificationsSculpture
DescriptionMedallic plaque with head of Medusa in high relief. Round plaque sunk within (separate) rim, with wave pattern on edge. Traces of gilding.
Part of a group of at least seven bridle ornaments thought to be found at Tarentum in the 1940s. The other pieces are in the MFA (59.299, 60.1153, 60.1154), Princeton University Art Museum, and a private collection in Switzerland. The other roundels (phalerae) have busts, and like this object they decorated the horse's bridle at the juncture of the headstall with the browband and noseband.
Part of a group of at least seven bridle ornaments thought to be found at Tarentum in the 1940s. The other pieces are in the MFA (59.299, 60.1153, 60.1154), Princeton University Art Museum, and a private collection in Switzerland. The other roundels (phalerae) have busts, and like this object they decorated the horse's bridle at the juncture of the headstall with the browband and noseband.
ProvenanceBy 1958: with Piero Tozzi, 137 East 57th Street, New York 22, N.Y. (said at the time of purchase to have been found at Tarentum over 20 years ago with MFA 59.299 and two medallions in the Art Museum at Princeton); October 13, 1960: purchased by MFA from Piero Tozzi for
$ 3,500.00 (this is the total price for 60.1152-60.1154)
$ 3,500.00 (this is the total price for 60.1152-60.1154)