bust of a woman with a cluster of small snakes at the front of her head, wings at the side of her head; intertwined snakes below her breasts

Medusa, c. 1854

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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Audio

Hosmer, Medusa Bust (#226)
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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bust of a woman with a cluster of small snakes at the front of her head, wings at the side of her head; intertwined snakes below her breasts