Antique Lifesize French Bronze Sculpture Demeter Greek Goddess of Harvest Statue

Description

A rare and Impressive solid bronze sculpture of Demeter, The Goddess of Harvest, Circa late 18 to early 19th Century. She's is shown standing with tunic, grapes in one hand and a wreath with fruit in the other. Cast in a dark bronze with green verdigris patina.

Demeter is the goddess of the harvest and presides over grains and the fertility of the earth. Although she was most often referred to as the goddess of the harvest, she was also goddess of sacred law and the cycle of life and death.

She is a very important deity in the Greek pantheon, embodying the life-giving aspects of nature and overseeing the cycles of life, death, and rebirth. Her myths and worship reflect the ancient Greeks’ deep connection with the land and their understanding of the delicate balance of the natural world.

Demeter’s influence extended into the realm of sacred law and rites, particularly through the Eleusinian Mysteries – a series of large and secretive concerts held every five years. These mysteries represented the abduction of Persephone by Hades in three phases. The “descent” (loss), the “search” and the “ascent”. The main theme is the “ascent” of Persephone and the reunion with her mother. These secretive and mystical rites, held in her honor, promised initiates guidance for a blessed afterlife.

Condition

Good Antique Condition; Some patina from use and age. Light marking and wear from use and age. Edge wear to base

Dimensions

64"h x 24" x 24"