|
|
 |
| Artemis - Diana of Ephesus Statue |
|
| 9 inches tall |
|
The image of Diana of Ephesus is a specialized form of Diana from late antiquity that includes aspects of Ishtar, Isis, Cybele and Inanna. She is a comprehensive figure of the divine feminine, and was called "Queen of Heaven", "Magna Mater" (Great Mother), Mother of the Animals, and Lady of the Wild Beasts. The many pomegranate-like breasts and the varied wild beasts adorning Diana of Ephesus show her also as an image of Mother Nature herself, fruitful and providing for all living things. Her Temple at Ephesus in Anatolia (modern-day Turkey) was so large and well-renowned that it was considered one of the Seven Wonders of the World.
The early christians particularly detested the Pagan worship of this Goddess, and considered her cult a rival. Paul tried to lead an uprising against the Temple of Ephesus, converting as many of the worshippers as he could. In typical christian fashion the virgin mary assumed many of Diana's traits, from the idea of Diana being a Virgin Goddess to her pose with outstretched palms which is so typical of many mary statues. Diana of Ephesus' Temple was declared to be the final resting place of their "mother of god". The stones of Diana's Temple were eventually torn down by the christians and used in their churches and other buildings.
Sand-colored Gypsum-stone statue, 9 inches tall. |
|
| STA006 |
|
|
