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Mermaid capital

Unknown author12th century

Museu Nacional de Machado de Castro

Museu Nacional de Machado de Castro
Coimbra, Portugal

This limestone capital depicts a typical Romanesque theme – the mermaid. Inspired by bestiaries of Oriental origin, this motif symbolised the protective and benevolent aspect of the sea. The piece features asymmetric decoration on three sides with a repetition of the theme: a mermaid holding a fish in her right hand and raising her tail in the other. This capital belonged to the church of São Pedro.

Details

  • Title: Mermaid capital
  • Creator: Unknown author
  • Date Created: 12th century
  • Physical Location: Machado de Castro National Museum, Coimbra, Portugal
  • Physical Dimensions: 40 cm x 42.5 cm x 40 cm
  • Provenance: São Pedro Church
  • Type: Sculpture
  • Rights: Photo: DGPC/ADF - Photographic Documentation Archive
  • Medium: Limestone

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