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Head of a Grotesque

ca. 1200–1220
On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 304
The comical effect of the muttonchop whiskers, bulbous nose, enormous eyes, and open mouth of this grotesque head demonstrates the extreme expressions found in marginal sculpture. The head resembles others on corbels supporting the roof cornice of one of the principal churches in Châlons-sur-Marne. The bold features, part of a visual language specific to medieval buildings, are meant to be seen from a distance. Recent research suggests that such bizarre heads may have been intended to ward off evil.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Head of a Grotesque
  • Date: ca. 1200–1220
  • Geography: Made in Champagne, France
  • Culture: French
  • Medium: Limestone
  • Dimensions: Overall: 14 x 11 3/4 x 13 3/4 in. (35.6 x 29.8 x 34.9 cm)
    82lb. (37.2kg)
  • Classification: Sculpture-Architectural
  • Credit Line: Rogers Fund, 1913
  • Object Number: 13.152.2
  • Curatorial Department: Medieval Art and The Cloisters

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