This amazing Ancient Roman scene is an image of authentic painted wall art from the Villa of the Mysteries in Pompeii, from the 1st Century AD.
It depicts the Eighth Scene of the initiation of a woman into the Dionysian Mysteries, also called the Mysteries of Bacchus. Bacchus, a god of sensuality, pleasure and spirituality was popular with Roman women as well as men.
This scene represents an event after the completion of the ritual drama. The transformed initiate or bride prepares, with the help of an attendant, for marriage. A servant does her hair, and a young Eros figure holds a mirror which reflects the image of the bride. Both the bride and her reflected image stare out inquiringly at us, the observers. Our Initiate has been changed and is preparing to take up her new station in life. How will she make use of the knowledge and wisdom she deals has gained?
She has lived a story in which her sacred spirit was separated from the dross of life, and secrets were revealed to her. She has faced her own death and has struggled through to the other side. She emerged victorious only to be confronted and scourged. What she has won did not come easily. Now as she prepares to move forward in her transformed life she must decide how best to use her new gifts...
This ancient fresco is one of the best preserved ancient paintings from the Roman world. The colors are amazingly lively as the Villa of the Mysteries was covered with ash during the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD, preserving the paintings.
This 12x18" canvas makes a wonderful gift for the historian (or the initiate!) in your life!
Product code: Ancient Rome - Pompeii- deals Villa of the Mysteries Initiation Scene 7 - 12x12" Canvas Wall Art