Roman Medusa Antefix

Details

These Medusa antefixae were made initially for The Newt in Sommerset, where they constructed a magnificent Roman Villa.  This style of antefix now adorns part of the roof at this beautiful new site. 

Grotesque faces of mythical beings and deities were a popular motif for terracotta antefixae during the Roman period.  It was thought that these effigies would ward off evil and unwanted visitors.  

The ancient Romans used them to conceal the ends of the tiles that ran along the edge of roofs.  They served both a functional and a decorative purpose, with the tiles protecting the wooden parts of the roof from the elements.  

 Materials

Terracotta and natural pigments.

Dimensions

Approx. 150 mm tall, 255 mm long, 110 mm depth.

Production

This replica has been hand-made in Northumberland by Potted History, based on an original artefact.  It has been fired to a temperature of between 800 & 1000 Centigrade to emulate the same techniques the original potters would have employed nearly two thousand years ago.  This process often results in variations of the surface colour and texture, as is common with the original Greek Pottery and giving each piece a unique character.

Postage

All items are sent using a second-class postal service; if you wish to have an item sent first class, please contact us for a quote.  Many Thanks