Roman Medusa head to make $40,000 at antiquities auction?

A fantastic Roman Medusa head statue is set to top an upcoming Ancient Artefacts auction, which will be held on July 28 in California.

Roman Medusa Head marble statue


The piece originates from a French collection and was originally part of a larger, complete composition. Carved from marble, Medusa's face is elegantly rendered with the hair styled back and blending gradually into serpent heads.

The carving is a 2nd century AD Roman reproduction of a Greek original, with the grasping hand of Perseus still present from the complete work. Despite having had to undergo restoration work on the left side of the face, it remains a well detailed piece with nice surfaces. Mounted on a custom base it is expected to sell for $40,000.

Original Greek carvings and statues sell for much higher prices than their Roman counterparts, with one ancient Greek relief selling 80.5% above its high estimate to achieve $500,000 at Sotheby's antiquities sale in June.

Another beheaded statue - this time a Flemish limestone head of a knight - will sell for $10,000-15,000 as the auction's second most valuable lot. Dating from the 14th century, the head is an attractive piece, yet is marred by a repaired break through the centre and restorations to the nose and chin.

One of the auction's most exciting lots is a gold Roman ring, which features an intaglio of an imperial head thought to be the British emperor Carausius. Created using high carat gold, presumed 22k, it is expected to bring $7,000-9,000.

Check back with Paul Fraser Collectibles to see the results from this exciting sale and more of the latest news from the world of collectibles.

 

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