Medusa

This 2nd-c. floor mosaic centers on Medusa’s head, framed by radiating black-and-white leaf motifs that mimic the hypnotic power of her mythic gaze. Romans used Medusa as an apotropaic (protective, evil-warding) emblem: the Gorgon whose stare could turn viewers to stone was believed to repel harm and protect the household. Placed in an entrance or reception room, such mosaics blended beauty with guardianship, signaling both taste and spiritual security.