Italian, Venice
Medallion: Centaur Attacked by a Lion, 12th century (or possibly a modern imitation of a medieval design)
Marble , 41.9 cm (16 1/2 in.)
General admission for children 17 years and under is always free
This round, marble medallion measures depicts, in relief, a lion attacking a centaur. This medallion is a decorative architectural element usually used to decorate friezes and walls, as well as to interrupt molding. The lion with wide bulging eyes and flying mane has his front paws digging into the mid back of the centaur, while he bites down. His two rear paws and hanging tail are turned to our right and can be seen under the body of the standing centaur. The centaur’s body is facing to our left. He holds a sword in his right hand, raised high above his head preparing to strike the attacking lion. The sheath of the sword is held in the centaur’s left hand which is pressed against his hip. His head is turned to our right, looking down at the lion.
Courtyard
Commentary
Isabella Stewart Gardner kept meticulous records of many of her acquisitions. In keeping with this legacy, object information is continually being reviewed, updated, and enriched in order to give greater access to the collection.