Image Details

From Panorama Of The Ancient World

This lovely personification of earthly fecundity, ready to suckle the twins she holds in her lap, is the Roman goddess Saturnia Tellus. She is carved on the top register of the rear wall of the Ara Pacis and is framed by two nymphs symbolizing air (with a bird) and water (with a sea creature). These three elements—earth, air and water—suggest the peace and stability brought to Rome during the reign of Augustus, following his victories in Spain and Gaul.