Vertumnus and Pomona c. 1625

Anthony van Dyck painted "Vertumnus and Pomona," capturing Ovid’s tale of transformation and seduction. Pomona, the Roman goddess of orchards, is portrayed resisting the advances of her suitors, particularly Vertumnus. Note the figure of Vertumnus, disguised as an old woman, a motif laden with cultural history. This guise echoes the ancient archetype of the wise old crone, a figure who appears across cultures. Think of the fairy tales where witches offer both aid and deception. The veil of age conceals the youthful god, a trick mirrored in countless stories where appearances mask true intent. The theme of disguise speaks to a deeper psychological truth. We often conceal our desires, cloaking them in acceptable forms. Vertumnus’ deception reflects a universal dance of courtship and persuasion, a game where appearances can be profoundly deceiving. It is not simply a game. It is a human drama, a dance of Eros and Psyche. As we consider this image, remember that such archetypes are not bound by time. They resurface, recast in new forms, reminding us of the enduring power of myth.