Terracotta gorgoneion antefix (roof tile)

ca. 580–570 BCE

On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 171

The frightening features of this Gorgon head, its petrifying eyes and sharp teeth, correspond to its Archaic date and were likely intended to ward off evil. Throughout the following century, the Gorgon tended to lose its more terrifying characteristics, and by the Late Classical period, its features were sweetened.

Artwork Details

Overview

Provenance

References

Title: Terracotta gorgoneion antefix (roof tile)
Period: Archaic
Date: ca. 580–570 BCE
Culture: Greek
Medium: Terracotta
Dimensions: H. 6 3/4 in. (17.1 cm.)
W. 9 5/8 in. (24.4 cm.)
Classification: Terracottas
Credit Line: Rogers Fund, 1910
Object Number: 10.210.44
Curatorial Department: Greek and Roman Art

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