Sui clipei del Foro di Augusto

The Forum of Augustus attests two groups of heads used in the decoration of clipei. In one of these the representation of luppiter Ammon has been recognised since its discovery. The other group - which consists of bearded heads wearing torques around the neck and with two holes carved near the upper part of the head - needs a different interpretation. On the basis of the material evidence, and considering the provincial architectural complexes following the model of the Forum of Augustus (where Iuppiter Ammon is always accompanied only by Medusa), it is likely that in this second group is represented [C]ernunnos, a Gallo- Roman divinity of ancient Celtic origin. This interpretation is supported by the logical explanation that can be found on different levels (symbolic, political, mythological-religious, iconographic) for the transformation of [C]ernunnos into Medusa.