Monumental Apotropaic Mask, Cyclops Medusa, Gennaro Condurso, Italy

A monumental ceramic wall mask from Seminara in Calabria, made by Gennaro Condurso.

A handmade and one-of-a-kind piece, of which only one example exists.

Dimensions: height 62 cm, width 49 cm, depth 14 cm.
Weight: 18 kg.

This impressive mask features a dark, glossy anthropomorphic face with deep blue eyes, a long pronounced nose and an open mouth with flowing red forms. Above the face appears a third eye, giving the work a Cyclops-like and almost ritual character.

Around the face, colourful serpent-like forms seem to move and intertwine in shades of red, green, blue, ochre and grey-white. These clearly refer to Medusa and strengthen the protective, magical presence of the object. The combination of snakes, eyes and the expressive mask is closely connected to the traditional maschere apotropaiche of Southern Italy: ceramic protective masks once used to ward off evil, misfortune and the evil eye.

Thanks to its monumental scale, strong relief and rich glossy glazes, this work has an exceptional presence. It makes a powerful statement as a wall-mounted artwork, both in a refined high-end interior and in a more artistic or eclectic setting.

The reverse is signed by the artist.

A powerful and rare ceramic artwork from Seminara, ideal as a monumental wall object, but also striking as a sculptural accent in a sheltered garden, patio or natural setting.