Greek art and the gods of the sea
8/12/2569
Greek art and the gods of the sea
The Roman god Neptune derives directly from his Etruscan name but modern studies point to similar or vice versa in early Italian culture. Originally the god of wells and underground freshwater his image later expanded to encompass all bodies of water including the sea. He is sometimes depicted with the power to control lightning and wielding a trident and his symbols were used for ancient Etruscan divination.
This ancient circular carving depicts Neptune the Roman god of the sea rising from the waves holding a long scepter flanked by two horse-headed sea monsters hippocampuses.
A striking bronze sculpture of Neptune or Poseidon the god of the sea creates an awe-inspiring atmosphere on the rocks of Melenara Beach on the island of Gran Canaria Spain. He is shown with his right hand holding a trident raised to the sky. Standing tall amidst crashing waves this work by Luis Arencibia Betancort installed in 2001 measures approximately 4.2 meters in height. From late Renaissance circular engravings circa 1550 to1600 to Vethulonia coins circa 215–211 BC depicting Neptune wearing a ketos a type of sea animal helmet this imagery is found on rare Etruscan bronze glass found at archaeological sites.
The statue of Neptune Neptuno de Melenara also known as Poseidon is located on a rock on Melenara Beach in Telde on the island of Gran Canaria Canary Islands Spain.
The mythological story depicted in ancient Roman mosaics shows Neptune standing on a chariot pulled by emerald sea horses. The use of vibrant colors and geometric patterns to enclose the intricately framed image acclaimed as a masterpiece titled Triumph of Neptune surrounded by figureheads of the four seasons in the corners dates back to approximately the late 2nd century. This mosaic is from La Chebba Tunisia.
The ancient Greek-Roman mosaic "The Triumph of Neptune and the Four Seasons" from La Chebba Tunisia is currently on display at the Bardo National Museum in Tunis.
Around the 2nd century or approximately 135 AD a large-scale marble sculpture was created depicting Poseidon. He was shown with a classical style beard and curly hair wearing a chlamys draped over his left shoulder. One hand was raised high holding a weapon and the statue rested on a base carved with dolphins. Historically the Romans were influenced by and later combined the story of Poseidon with their own god Neptune incorporating the Greek belief in praying for rain and moisture during the driest periods of summer. Sailors and fishermen often offered prayers and sacrifices to Neptune before voyages seeking calm seas and safe journeys.
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