Description

Persephone is a significant figure in Greek mythology, particularly as the goddess of the underworld. Her story is closely linked to the changing seasons and the cycle of life and death.

Persephone was abducted by Hades, the god of the underworld. While she was picking flowers in a field Hades emerged from the earth and carried her away to his realm. In the underworld Kore the maiden was dead and Persephone was transformed through sacred death to became the queen, the Dark Mother goddess ruling alongside Hades. As the goddess of the underworld, she presided over the souls of the deceased. Her presence in the underworld was associated with the dormant, lifeless phase of nature during the winter months. The seed before it becomes the shoot and then the grain.

Persephone’s story is intricately tied to the changing seasons. When she was with Hades in the underworld, her mother Demeter mourned her loss, causing the earth’s vegetation to wither and die. When Persephone returned to the world above, Demeter rejoiced, and the earth bloomed with life, her story symbolises the cyclical nature of life and death.

Persephone’s dual role as both the innocent maiden and the powerful queen of the underworld is a central theme in Greek mythology. Her story not only explains the changing seasons but also explores themes of transition, renewal, and rebirth.

This painting was commissioned by Wyn Abbot for her book ‘Persephone and Demeter’ which I thoroughly recommend for a deeper more nuanced exploration into the story of these two goddesses, as well as their connection with the divine feminine.

Link: https://www.wynabbotceramics.com/books