Ancient Greek, Magna Graecia Gorgon Head Applique
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Expert
Selected by Peter Reynaers
Has nearly 30 years’ experience and moderated multiple online art research groups.
Estimate € 3,000 - € 3,500
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Description from the seller
Attention for non EU buyers: No shipping outside of the European Union.
Circular appliqué with Medusa head (Gorgoneion)
Great Greece, Canosa, 3rd century BC.
Circular terracotta appliqué or medallion sculpted in relief with a Medusa head, the only Gorgon to be individualized in ancient iconography.
The face, full and softened features, presents a subdued apotropaic expression, typical of Hellenistic productions in southern Italy. Unlike the grimacing archaic representations, Medusa here adopts an almost idealized physiognomy: almond eyes, straight nose and closed mouth, giving the whole a presence that is both protective and calming.
The hair, arranged in wavy locks framing the face, stylistically evokes the serpents characteristic of the Gorgon. This softened treatment is representative of the Canosa workshops, where the figure of Medusa frequently appears in funerary contexts with a protective purpose.
Two perforations in the upper part indicate a mounting system, suggesting a wall-attachment function or a decorative furniture element.
The surface retains traces of polychromy, with white and pinkish highlights, bearing witness to the original painted aspect of the work, characteristic of the Canosa productions of the 3rd century BC.
Very good state of conservation.
Minimal old restoration on the edge, otherwise intact.
Dimensions: diameter 12.8 cm; thickness 2.5 cm.
Provenance: Former private Belgian collection formed between 1980 and 1998 by Mr. F. C., former registrar at the Brussels Justice of the Peace Court, Knight of the Order of the Crown of Belgium.
An invoice and an authenticity certificate from the expert will be provided to the buyer.
The item will be shipped and insured by DHL Express.
Warning:
Not for shipping outside the European Union.
The seller guarantees and is entitled to sell/export this object.
The seller will not ship outside the EU.
Attention for non EU buyers: No shipping outside of the European Union.
Seller's Story
Founded in 1978, the gallery is dedicated to classical archaeology and ancient numismatics.
It is located in Brussels, in the historic Sablon district, a leading spot of the European antique market.
Translated by Google TranslateAttention for non EU buyers: No shipping outside of the European Union.
Circular appliqué with Medusa head (Gorgoneion)
Great Greece, Canosa, 3rd century BC.
Circular terracotta appliqué or medallion sculpted in relief with a Medusa head, the only Gorgon to be individualized in ancient iconography.
The face, full and softened features, presents a subdued apotropaic expression, typical of Hellenistic productions in southern Italy. Unlike the grimacing archaic representations, Medusa here adopts an almost idealized physiognomy: almond eyes, straight nose and closed mouth, giving the whole a presence that is both protective and calming.
The hair, arranged in wavy locks framing the face, stylistically evokes the serpents characteristic of the Gorgon. This softened treatment is representative of the Canosa workshops, where the figure of Medusa frequently appears in funerary contexts with a protective purpose.
Two perforations in the upper part indicate a mounting system, suggesting a wall-attachment function or a decorative furniture element.
The surface retains traces of polychromy, with white and pinkish highlights, bearing witness to the original painted aspect of the work, characteristic of the Canosa productions of the 3rd century BC.
Very good state of conservation.
Minimal old restoration on the edge, otherwise intact.
Dimensions: diameter 12.8 cm; thickness 2.5 cm.
Provenance: Former private Belgian collection formed between 1980 and 1998 by Mr. F. C., former registrar at the Brussels Justice of the Peace Court, Knight of the Order of the Crown of Belgium.
An invoice and an authenticity certificate from the expert will be provided to the buyer.
The item will be shipped and insured by DHL Express.
Warning:
Not for shipping outside the European Union.
The seller guarantees and is entitled to sell/export this object.
The seller will not ship outside the EU.
Attention for non EU buyers: No shipping outside of the European Union.
Seller's Story
Founded in 1978, the gallery is dedicated to classical archaeology and ancient numismatics.
It is located in Brussels, in the historic Sablon district, a leading spot of the European antique market.
Translated by Google TranslateDetails
Culture
Ancient Greek, Magna Graecia
Century/timeframe
3ème siècle avant J-C. (Canosa)
Name of object
Gorgon Head Applique
Acquired from
Private collection
Year acquired
2026
Country acquired from
Belgium
Condition
Very good +
Previous owner acquired from
Private collection
Previous owner - year acquired
1980
Previous owner - country acquired from
Belgium
I verify that I have obtained this object legally and that I am allowed to sell it
Yes
Authenticity
Original/official
Sold by
Disclaimer
The seller was informed by Catawiki about documentation requirements and guarantees the following: - the object was legally obtained, - the seller has the right to sell and/or export the object, as relevant, - the seller will provide the necessary provenance information and arrange required documentation and permits/licenses, as applicable and as per local laws, - the seller will notify the buyer of any delays in obtaining permits/licenses. By bidding, you acknowledge that import documentation may be required depending on your country of residence and that obtaining permits/licenses may cause delays in the delivery of your object.
The seller was informed by Catawiki about documentation requirements and guarantees the following: - the object was legally obtained, - the seller has the right to sell and/or export the object, as relevant, - the seller will provide the necessary provenance information and arrange required documentation and permits/licenses, as applicable and as per local laws, - the seller will notify the buyer of any delays in obtaining permits/licenses. By bidding, you acknowledge that import documentation may be required depending on your country of residence and that obtaining permits/licenses may cause delays in the delivery of your object.
