Roman relief of Epona
At that time horses were not only indispensable as a means of transport, but were also considered a sign of prosperity.
EPONA - THE GODDESS OF HORSES
The goddess Epona is one of the oldest and most famous goddesses in Celtic history.
She became so famous that even the Romans gave her a special place of honor in their stables. The swift horsewoman with a flowing cape was supposed to take care of the welfare of the highest good at that time.
Horses were the most important and fastest way to cover short or long distances, they facilitated the work in the field thanks to their power and size, and they were also a store of value. Of course, it was therefore of extraordinary importance that the steed remained healthy and fit and, best of all, provided for sufficient offspring.
EPONA - GODDESS OF FERTILITY
Epona gained fame primarily as the goddess of horses. But there have always been indications that aspects such as fertility, abundance and growth played an equally important role in the cult of Epona. Thus she is often depicted with a bowl full of ears of corn and ripe fruit or a cornucopia. Springs dedicated to her connect Epona with the constant flow of life and so the assumption remains that the special importance of the noble mounts at that time, are the reason why Epona's aspects as a great mother goddess increasingly fell into oblivion.
- Dimensions of the goddess: approx. 22 x 21 x 5 cm
- Suspension on the back for easy attachment to the wall
- Material: alabaster stucco with antique patina
- Original Landesmuseum Stuttgart
THE DIVINE MARE
In her early days, Epona was depicted as a divine mare, usually with foals. Over time, she became a beautiful, strong woman riding a white horse. Strength, energy, movement and speed are her attributes. Shrines and sanctuaries dedicated to the high goddess can be found throughout Europe.
As an archetype, Epona represents the strong, independent woman who knows how to handle her own strength, is able to leap over all obstacles, and yet always holds the reins firmly in her hand.
A COMMON GODDESS FOR ROMANS AND CELTS
Even though the Romans suspiciously regarded Celtic society as barbaric and uncivilized, the need for a protective hand to keep their own horses and foals healthy was something they also considered appropriate, and so it was easy for Germanic and Celtic cavalrymen under Roman rule to spread their cult throughout the empire.
Epona is the only Celtic deity that ever entered the Roman realm of gods.
Nevertheless, a small change occurred as a result. While the Celts were primarily concerned with preserving their horses as livestock and beasts of burden, the Romans asked for protection for their war horses and racehorses.
Fill your home with the power and strength of one of Europe's most important ancestral goddesses.
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