Description:

Roman, Imperial period, ca. 1st to 3rd century CE. A radiant talisman of Roman ingenuity and mythic power, this ancient gold pendant features the repousse head of Medusa, known as a gorgoneion. Struck from 94.8% pure gold (22.8 karats), the face appears full and rounded, framed by thick curling locks and flanked by a pair of outstretched wings. Her expression is enigmatic but alert, her features modeled with delicate fullness and precise symmetry. Encircling the pendant is a finely twisted wire border, a flourish of technical skill that adds a subtle frame to this protective image. The gorgoneion was a common apotropaic symbol in Roman art, found on armor, temple friezes, and personal adornments. Stripped of her monstrous body, Medusa's severed head retained its power to turn harm away - a supernatural shield rendered here in luminous gold. Size: 1" L x 0.7" W (2.5 cm x 1.8 cm); gold quality: 94.8% (about 22.8 karats); weight: 1.3 grams

Suspended from a loop at the top, this pendant once hung close to the heart, embodying both beauty and dread. Its refined repousse work and mythic iconography speak to the lasting role of classical imagery in Roman personal adornment and spiritual protection.

Provenance: private Dayton, Maryland, USA collection

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.

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SHIPPING EXCEPTIONS: Due to customs clearance issues, we are unable to ship to Germany, Switzerland and Australia. If you live in Germany, Switzerland or Australia, you will need to provide an alternate shipping destination, or we will not be able to complete your purchase. In addition, please note that we are unable to ship ancient items back to the original country of origin (Egyptian to Egypt, Greek to Greece, etc.)

PAYMENT EXCEPTION: Unless a known customer of Artemis, payment for all gold / precious metal / gem lots must be made via Bank Wire Transfer or Certified Bank Check/Money Order, no exceptions.

#195836

  • Condition: Some light bending and two miniscule fissures to gold leaf on left side, but, otherwise, intact with liberal remaining detail. Wearable though wear is not recommended due to fragility of suspension loop.

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Shipping

Bidder Can Make Shipping Arrangements, Local Pick-Up, In-House Shipping

September 4, 2025 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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