Two Antique Greek Terracotta Antefix Ornaments
£675.00
This 19th century pair of antique Greek terracotta antefix ornaments would have once decorated a tiled roof. Also known as ‘akrokeramo’, antefix such as these were often used by the ancient Greeks and Romans in anthemion architecture, acting as a decorative feature while also concealing the joining tiles of a roof.
Originating from Greece, each antefix has a neoclassical look, decorated with masks of the Greek God, Hermes (the Roman Mercury), wearing a winged hat as he is often depicted. Both are ornately made, detailed with scrolls to the base and anthemion behind, creating a decorative finial steeped in majesty. Over 140 years old, these Greek architectural ornaments are steeped in history and make handsome sculpture for a bookshelf, desk or sideboard.