ancient fresco of a seated goddess holding an offering plate over a fire

A 1st century BCE fresco (found in Pompeii) of Vesta. She is shown seated, holding an offering plate (called a patera) over a vibrant altar fire.

Because Vesta was symbolized by, and resided in, her sacred flame, paintings and statues of her are quite rare. This, however, is a gorgeous fresco that was recovered from Pompeii. It was part of a household shrine (called a lararium).

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The Vestal Virgins in Gerome's Pollice Verso

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Statue of Rome's Last Vestal Virgin