More on the Iconography of Diana

This is a follow up to a post on RRC 486/1, all part of the larger recurrent theme of Nemi.

This representation of Diana (Artemis) feels important because it is the first time I’ve seen her with a child (in this case a cupid) leaning over her lap. It seems a good parallel for the three figure design on the pediment of the model temple found at Nemi (earlier post).

The other intriguing thing. New to my eyes is this wavy radiate crown. It is even in the Iphigenia fresco and thus I’ve seen it many times before.

I should have also remembered the standing figure of Diana/Artemis in this fresco. Its raised arms are in a very similar position to those on reverse of RRC 486/1. Note also similarity in costume. The curious thing is that in almost all these statue depictions in fresco of Artemis she holds torches. And yet no torches are on the coin design. Also notice how Diana/Artemis in the sky has the same gesture as Agamemnon. Never noticed that before.

The radiate crown brought to mind, the head gear of the two figures adorning a statue of the palladion on my favorite Campana plaque, but I think it is likely a false connection.