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Ptolemaic Period Sculpture: The Bes-Image Located in Gallery 131 at The Met Fifth Avenue, this remarkable sculpture represents the deity known as Bes, specifically characterized as a “Bes-image.” While Bes is often depicted in its likeness, the actual name of the figure remains unidentified on this statue. From the Kushite Period, stylized representations of Bes…
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The Enigmatic Nyx: Goddess of Night Nyx, the personification of Night, was a significant figure within Greek mythology, belonging to the primordial gods that arose at the onset of creation. As a daughter born from Khaos, the embodiment of the Void, Nyx’s union with Erebos, the representation of Darkness, gave rise to Aither (Light) and…
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The term “FIDES” is often incorrectly understood as ‘faith’; however, its interpretation in Roman culture diverges significantly from Christian connotations. For the Romans, FIDES represented a crucial aspect of an individual’s integrity within public affairs and social engagements, akin to the notion of ‘good faith’. This concept encapsulated reliability, implying a mutual trust essential for…
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Ancient Egyptian mythology is home to a rich tapestry of intriguing deities, each presenting unique stories, symbols, and powers. One of the most captivating among them is Sekhmet. Delving into the lore surrounding Sekhmet not only enriches one’s understanding of Egyptian beliefs but also offers profound insights into their cultural values. This article will delve…
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The Adventures of Heracles: A Hero’s Journey Heracles, famed in Greek mythology, was instructed by the Delphic Oracle to undertake twelve monumental tasks on behalf of King Eurystheus of Mycenae. These epic quests are preserved through ancient Grecian art, exemplified by 2,500-year-old vase paintings showcasing Heracles’ exploits. Additional Exploits of Heracles Beyond the renowned twelve…
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Scáthach: The Fearsome Warrior Queen of Ancient Irish Mythology Scáthach, a mythic warrior renowned for her teachings, played a vital role in shaping the legendary hero Cú Chulainn’s fighting skills. Revered in Irish mythology, she is often referred to as “The Shadow.” Hailing from a formidable castle on the Isle of Skye, Scáthach dedicated her…
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Several years ago, the British Museum hosted an intriguing exhibition titled “Living with Gods,” centered on the notion that religion profoundly influences human existence. This concept has long fascinated me: if the essence of humanity includes religion, what function does it serve? One fundamental aspect of religion is its role in interpreting and understanding the…
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Welcome back to another edition of Deities of Good Fortune. In our previous discussions, we have explored figures such as St. Anthony, Ekeko, Lakshmi, Mami Wata, and the Seven Lucky Gods. Today, we shift our focus to the ancient Roman Empire and examine the Roman Goddess known as Fortuna. To understand Fortuna, we must appreciate…
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Ares: The Olympian God of War Ares, recognized as the Olympian deity of warfare, represents the aspects of battle, valor, and societal order. In ancient Greek visual art, he was typically depicted either as a mature warrior with a beard, fully armed, or as a youthful, beardless figure equipped with a helmet and spear. Myths…
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Medusa: The Mortality and Transformation of a Gorgon Medusa, a character steeped in Greek mythology, stands out as the only mortal among the three Gorgons, her immortal sisters being Stheno and Euryale. These three figures are the progeny of Phorcys, the sea deity representing the hidden threats lurking beneath the waves, and Ceto, the goddess…
