Etruscan Bronze Applique in Form of a Gorgoneion

Culture: Etruscan

Period: 6th-5th century B.C.

Material: Bronze

Dimensions: 8.5 cm high

Price: Sold

Ref: 4139

Provenance: English private collection, acquired between 1960 and 1980.

Condition: Except for one minor corrosion hole intact with wonderful patina.

Description: Heavy archaic bronze applique in form of a Gorgon head (“Gorgoneion”). The head is elaborately worked out with almond-shaped eyes, humped nose and large ears. The mouth is wide open forming the typical grimace of the scary figure. Both rows of teeth are worked out, between them the tongue sticking out. The high, prominent cheekbones accentuate the distinctive expression of the Gorgon. The hair is long and cascades in corkscrew curls on the side. On the forehead two horns, above braided hair. The ending is formed by a band with curled ends which possibly can be interpreted as a stylized serpent. At the bottom two small perforations for mounting. The applique served as a decorative piece of a bronze jug or furniture. Magnificent cuprite patina. A rare depiction. Mounted.