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Roman copper alloy furniture fitting, Medusa mask
Furniture fitting in the shape of a Medusa mask, incomplete.
It has been suggested that this type of boss or stud was to adorn the chest and shoulders of soldiers, perhaps in pairs joined by long chains. They could have been worn in a similar fashion to phalerae which were large discs awarded as medals are nowadays for distinguished conduct.
Source: Isca Silurum or, An illustrated catalogue of the Museum of Antiquities at Caerleon by John Edward Lee. Caerleon (Wales). Museum of Antiquities; 1862.
Collection Area
Archaeology & Numismatics
Item Number
31.78/4.30
Find Information
Site Name: Caerleon, Newport: Gwent
Acquisition
Donation, 19/2/1931
Measurements
length / mm:40.0
width / mm:33.0
thickness / mm:6.0
Material
copper alloy
Location
Caerleon: Case 16 Furniture and Fittings
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