Les Singuliers et Nouveaux Portraicts... page 45 (verso) 1588

This is page 45 from Federico de Vinciolo's "Les Singuliers et Nouveaux Portraicts," made during the late 16th century. Here, Diana, the Roman goddess of the moon and the hunt, stands prominently. This deity is also known as Artemis in Greek mythology. She symbolizes chastity, hunting, wild animals, the wilderness, and the moon. Accompanied by dogs and cherubic figures, Diana is part of a rich tapestry of symbols that have been passed down since ancient times. The presence of Diana connects us to early matriarchal societies that revered the feminine divine, and her bow and arrow symbolize not just hunting, but also direction, force and purpose. Diana transcends her role as huntress, embodying the untamed aspects of nature and the cyclical rhythms of life and death. Her repeated depiction through the ages highlights our enduring connection to nature and the powerful archetypes that continue to influence our collective psyche.