7. Ghost Host

Mansion graveyard
Image: Tori Behr, Flickr (license)

The final Sinister 11 character to appear in the entry and load area is the Ghost Host. This is one of two portraits that you’ll see of your chilling narrator. If you’re interested in putting a face to that haunting voice that acts as your tour guide, here’s your chance. The other portrait is at the end of the corridor of doors before the clock hallway.

8. April to December

April to December Portrait
Image: Steve, Flickr (license)

At the balcony stairs, you’ll see a portrait of an old woman in a mauve dress. The portrait is still referred to as April to December, though what you’re seeing is just the December version of the women. This was a Marc Davis concept intended for a changing portrait. The portrait began with a lovely “April” woman. It was then meant to change to a slightly older “June” image, a plumper middle-aged “September” image, and finally the old “December” woman.

9. Lizzie Borden’s Parents

Lizzie Borden
Image: David, Flickr (license)

Also on the balcony stairs is a portrait that many people simply refer to as “The Couple.” However, this particular couple has a sinister history as the Cast Members tell it. They’re purportedly meant to be Lizzie Borden’s parents. Abby Borden was killed with 19 axe blows, followed by her husband Andrew who took 10 or 11 blows, primarily to the face and head. Their daughter was accused, but never convicted, of the double murder.

10. Medusa

Medusa
Image: mfvazquez63, Flickr (license)

Medusa is the only one of the Sinister 11 to maintain her residence in the portrait gallery. Medusa hails from Greek mythology. She was one of three sisters known as the Gorgons, and the only mortal of the trio. She was once a fair priestess of Athena, but fell in love with Poseidon and abandoned her vows. For this offense, she was transformed into a monster with snakes for hair and a gaze so ferocious it turned onlookers to stone.

11. The Seer

Opera Glasses
Image: dr_tr, Flickr (license)

By the last pane of glass in the ballroom, you’ll see a woman with eerie eyes, a black cat, and luminous opera glasses. The presence of those glasses has given her the nickname “Opera Glasses Lady” in many circles. However, this woman doesn’t have anything to do with visiting the opera. She’s a seer who can foretell the future, and her eerie glasses are only meant to emphasize this ability. Many believe that her image inspired the original bride in the attic.

Th Sinister 11 may not occupy their traditional gallery anymore, but they’re still readily visible throughout the mansion for those dedicated fans who are sharp enough to spot them.