figure here enthroned is Ceres, the Demeter of the Greeks. The Goddess
of Corn, of Earth, and Agriculture, is crowned with corn. A torch in her
right hand, bearded corn on her left arm, and a basket of corn also at
her feet. The spiked corn is always seen represented in ancient art both
in paintings and on coins. It forms a conspicuous symbol on the coins of
Metapontum, a city in the same part of Italy as Pompeii. This painting
is engraved in the Mus. Bor., vol. vi., tav. 54. Also by Zahn, taf. 25.
The figure of Ceres is dressed in thin gauze undergarment, with pale
slate-coloured drapery covering a purple dress, which appears only above
the feet. A muslin-like drapery is gathered behind her head and
shoulders. The throne, torch, and flame are all of one uniform yellow
colour. The basket of corn is in natural colours. From the House of
Ceres.