Vesta with Pales Plaque pagan" her chalice-shaped form was worshipped

her chalice-shaped form was worshipped as early as 7000 BCE

Experts believe both surfaces of this clay disc should be read in a spiral direction from the outside rim to the inside

which were then blessed

Greek and medieval cultures

Vesta with Pales Plaque pagan" her chalice-shaped form was worshippedGoddess of household harmony. She rests at ease and content, symbols of wealth and well being surrounding her. Vesta, (whose Greek name, Hestia, means "hearth"), is accompanied by the donkey god Pales, a symbol of creative labor and fertility throughout the ancient world. The serpent represents Vesta's generative power, while her scepter and headdress signify her rank. [Berlin Staatliche Museum, 2nd cent. CE] 7 3 4" x 6 3 4" gypsumstone plaque, tan