European
Serpent Architectural Element, 17th century - 18th century
Wrought iron, 40.6 x 10.2 x 2.5 cm (16 x 4 x 1 in.)
This wrought iron serpent or snake is black with some rusted areas is possibly of Italian origin. The snake's body has four undulations leading to the head on the left side. The snake's mouth is open showing teeth and two eyes sit on top of the head. The middle the snake's body secured to a rectangular wooden block by three large iron nails.
East, North, And West Cloister
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.