Corinthian Capital
Late 11th Century – Early 12th Century
White Marble
Location: Museum of Montecassino Abbey, Gallery
Provenance: Monastery of San Vincenzo al Volturno
This is the fragment of a white marble capital. It is decorated with acanthus leaves and has the characteristic traits of the Corinthian order. Compared to nearby pieces, however, it has a special feature: it does not date back to Roman times, but was made in the Middle Ages (more precisely, between the late 11th and early 12th century). Therefore it is a reinterpretation of the Corinthian style. The work is of very high quality and very original. Next to the plant motif, an ancient tradition, there are carved animal heads¾possibly rams¾depicted at the four, upper corners; only one of the heads is preserved. This artifact was found around 1970 during excavations at the abbey of San Vincenzo al Volturno.
