Medusa, c. 1854
Harriet Goodhue Hosmerexpand_more
Marbleexpand_more
The Walter C. and Mary C. Briggs Purchase Fundexpand_more 2003.125
On View in Gallery 323expand_more
In Greek mythology Medusa was a beautiful priestess of Athena, the goddess of war. Medusa angered Athena, who punished Medusa by transforming her into a powerful monster with snakes in place of hair and a gaze that turned those who looked at her to stone. In Hosmer’s hands, Medusa retains her beauty, her hair writhing in transformation. Hosmer herself experienced supernatural events—premonitions, clairvoyance (perceiving things through extrasensory perception), and visits from spirits—so she may have considered Medusa’s curse a gift rather than a detriment. Perhaps she associated Medusa’s changed state with one of power and authority, as much to be respected as feared.
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Details
- Title
- Medusa
- Artist Life
- 1830-1908
- Role
- Artist
- Accession Number
- 2003.125
- Curator Approved
This record is from historic documentation and may not have been reviewed by a curator, so may be inaccurate or incomplete. Our records are frequently revised and enhanced. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please email collectionsdata@artsmia.org.
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