Aphrodite, Roman Goddess of Love - Ancient Roman Mythology
This plaster bust is a contemporary creation inspired by two renowned ancient Greek marble statues of Aphrodite, the goddess of love and beauty. These statues, dating back to around 250-200 BCE, are prominently displayed in the Met Museum in New York and the Getty Museum in Los Angeles. The bust is adorned with symbols traditionally associated with Aphrodite, including dolphins, doves, roses, scallop shells, and grapes, which embellish her lower form. The inscription on the bust reads: "Aphrodite: Goddess of Love and Beauty," capturing the essence of her divine nature.
In Greek mythology, Aphrodite's origins are enveloped in both mystery and grandeur. According to one myth, she emerged from the sea foam near Cyprus, born from the severed genitals of Ouranos after his son, Cronus, threw them into the ocean. This dramatic birth symbolizes her association with the primal forces of life and beauty. Alternatively, Homer's Iliad presents a different lineage, naming her as the daughter of Zeus, the king of the gods, and Dione, a goddess whose identity remains somewhat obscure in the mythological canon.
Aphrodite's influence permeates numerous Greek myths, underscoring her pivotal role in the pantheon. Her beauty and charm were said to be irresistible, affecting gods and mortals alike. Perhaps one of the most famous tales involving Aphrodite is her contribution to the events leading up to the Trojan War. It was Aphrodite who promised Paris, a Trojan prince, the love of the most beautiful woman in the world, Helen of Sparta, if he awarded her the golden apple inscribed with "To the Fairest." Paris's choice sparked a chain of events that ultimately led to the decade-long conflict between the Greeks and Trojans, highlighting Aphrodite's far-reaching power and the significant impact of her divine interventions.
This plaster bust, with its intricate symbolism and historical inscriptions, serves as a tribute to the enduring legacy of Aphrodite, embodying the timeless allure and multifaceted nature of the goddess of love and beauty.
Product Information
Material: Plaster
Dimensions: H13 x W7.5 x L3.5cm
Product Weight: 0.26Kg Postage Weight: 0.34Kg