This 3D-printed replica is based on a bronze head of Medusa from the first Nemi ship of Emperor Caligula, built around 37–41 CE on Lake Nemi, south of Rome. The original object was a sculptural beam-end fitting attached to one of the most extravagant vessels of the Roman imperial world.
The design shows Medusa as a powerful protective figure, with a staring face, curling hair, and strong mythological presence. In Greek and Roman art, the head of Medusa, or gorgoneion, was widely used as an apotropaic image, intended to ward off danger and hostile forces. On Caligula’s ship, it combined protection, luxury, and imperial display.
The original bronze fitting belonged to a floating palace rather than an ordinary ship. Caligula’s Nemi ships were decorated with bronze ornaments, architectural fittings, marble surfaces, and mythological imagery. This replica preserves the strong frontal presence of the original object and offers a compact way to display one of the surviving witnesses to the lost Nemi ships.
The original Medusa head is now preserved in the Museo Nazionale Romano, Palazzo Massimo alle Terme, Rome.
Material Options
White Nylon
A lightweight and affordable option with a polished surface. The polishing process makes the object smoother to the touch while keeping the form clear and suitable for display.
Black Nylon
A durable nylon option with a uniform black Color Touch finish. The post-printing treatment makes the surface resistant to scratching and rubbing, with stable and consistent colour between production batches.
Bronze
Produced through metal casting from a 3D-printed wax master model. This material gives the replica a solid, elegant metal appearance suited to a museum-inspired decorative object.
Gold-Plated Brass
Produced through metal casting and finished with gold plating. This option gives the replica a warmer and more luxurious appearance while preserving the sculptural details of the design.
White Rhodium-Plated Brass
Produced through metal casting and finished with white rhodium plating. This material gives the replica a bright, refined, silver-toned surface with a premium appearance.
Production Note
Some objects are too large to be produced in original scale in all available materials. In these cases, the replica is made at a reduced scale.
