Penates Plaque

Household Gods Shrine with Symbols of Prosperity and Health.

The Penates plaque-shrine was a central motif of every Roman household. The temple-shaped shrine depicts two Lares figures; with upraised offering bowls they gesture prosperity and health to the deity at center. This is the Genius, or eldest ancestor of the family. The serpent below symbolizes the clan's generative fertility, energy and longevity. Notice the bull-head, plowshare and round bread loaf at top, also symbols of wealth and good fortune.

11 1/2" x 9 3/4" resin plaque, terra cotta color finish. #R-PEN