Medusa Apotropaic Ancient Greek Art Button

Medusa is a very common figure in ancient Greek art. Her face appears in almost all objects of art, in many different contexts. The prevalent interpretation of the Gorgon (Medusa) proposes she is an apotropaic symbol used to protect from and ward off negative energy, e.g. the evil eye. She is a dangerous threat meant to deter (hence the word 'apotropaic') other dangerous threats, a scary symbol that repels evil. The term gorgoneion refers to the head and face of Medusa, as shown in this design, which was often employed as a decorative motif. This particular design is derived from a 6th century BCE terracotta black-figure vase by Ergotimos (the potter) and Kleitias (the painter) - so, no royalties! Use this design to ward off negativity and celebrate Greece and ancient Greek art at the same time. It also looks cool!