Roman Mosaic Depicting the Head of Medusa

The coiling snakes are vividly depicted on this mosaic, writhing around the head of the stern faced Medusa. These serpents are done in darker tones and are quite realistic. Medusa’s face is ‘fleshy’ and full, her eyes are cleverly done in a way to suggest both death and watchfulness; or perhaps vigilance from the netherworld. Her pursed lips positioned close to the nose appear as if about to speak. Medusa was one of the Gorgons killed by Perseus who presented the severed head to the goddess Athena as a gift. She is one of the most popular themes in ancient art. This mosaic has been reconstructed using ancient and modern materials.