The Egyptian goddess Isis was incorporated into the Roman religion in the 1st century AD. In Ancient Egypt, she was worshipped for, among other things, her ability to give her followers a better life after death. The Romans sometimes combined Isis with other Roman goddesses, creating new composite (syncretic) deities. One connection is with Fortuna, the goddess of fortune and fate.
Thus this statuette has attributes of both Fortuna (helm and cornucopia) and Isis (headdress of moon disc between horns or feathers). However, the typical robe knot in front of the chest (so-called Isis knot) is missing. Isis-Fortuna has the usual characteristics of Fortuna. The oar in her right hand refers to her control over the course of human life. The cornucopia in her left arm is a symbol of abundance and prosperity. (AVS)
Former August Kestner Collection, Rome
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