Archaeologists in Sicily have uncovered a Roman mask mould depicting Medusa in the ruins of the ancient Greek city Finziade.

The mould, dating to the late Republican period (133-31 BCE), was found in a building likely used for mask production.

The mould’s design—featuring a stern face with wild hair—resembles Medusa, a figure from Greek mythology often associated with protective charms, Gizmodo has reported.

This discovery, under the direction of Roberto Sciarratta, highlights the intersection of spirituality and culture in ancient Rome, as well as the importance of mask production in the region’s artisanal practices.

Written by B.C. Begley