Votive application. Canosa workshop, circa 3rd century BC.

Votive application. Canosa workshop, circa 3rd century BC.
Terracotta with engobe and traces of pink pigment.
Good state of preservation.
Provenance: private collection, acquired at Ancient & Oriental, London, October 2013.
Measurements: 13 x 12 cm.

Canosa votive applique depicting a Medusa/Gorgona mask. It had an apotropaic function, that is, the ability or object to ward off evil, bad luck, evil spirits, or any negative influence. It served as an amulet or talisman that deflects or nullifies danger.