2nd century AD. A substantial bronze phalera, roughly oval-shaped in plan with central Medusa head in high relief, wings and snakes in hair, with large serpent head emerging from the top of the head, detailing to hair and face and scrolled detailing to border; hollow reverse. See D'Amato, R. and Sumner G., Arms and Armour of the Imperial Roman Soldier: From Marius to Commodus, 112 BC-AD 192, London, 2009. 133 grams, 70mm (2 3/4"). Ex collection of a Surrey, UK, gentleman; acquired on the UK art market; previously on the European art market before 2000. A type of phalera - in the Roman army, part of the dona militaria, equivalent to military medals or trophies given to the soldiers for their bravery - was formed with the head of Medusa, the terrible Gorgon who petrified the men with her look. In Ancient Rome, these ornate disc-shaped plates, usually made of gold, silver or bronze, were awarded to Roman soldiers who had distinguished themselves in battle. The magnificent phalerae from Lauesfort (D'Amato, 2009, p.177), echoing the decoration visible on the gravestone of the centurion Caelius, wearing a corona civica on his head, are the most known silver artwork of military decorations of early Imperial age. Phalerae of glass were known as well, with images of generals and principes.