While visiting le Louvre with the family a detail of this Marcus sculpture caught my eye, why is there a laughing head with the tongue out acting as a fibula ?
It contrast funnily with the serious expression of character himself and I wanted to know if this has a special meaning.
Thanks !
It seems to be a recurring motif with Marcus Aurelius, it is supposed to resemble Medusa: Source
Other busts seem to also depict this medusa: Source Source Source
As for the lolling tongue; it seems to be a common depiction of Medusa either as a form of agression, or simply because her head is severed and she is dead: Source
I however cannot find the reason why this is a specific motif for Marcus Aurelius, but it can even be found in coins from the time: Source
