Chariot Pole Finial Head with Medusa in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, March 2018

Bronze ornament from a chariot pole

Period: Imperial

Date: 1st–2nd century A.D.

Culture: Roman

Medium: Bronze, silver, copper

Dimensions: 7 3/16 × 7 1/16 × 4 3/16 in., 4.5 lb. (18.3 × 17.9 × 10.7 cm, 2 kg)

Classification: Bronzes

Credit Line: Rogers Fund, 1918

Accession Number: 18.75


This heavy metal ornament, decorated with the head of Medusa and inlays of silver and copper, probably comes from a currus triumphalis (ceremonial chariot) used in processions rather than a lightweight racing chariot.

Text from: www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/250666