Bust of Goddess Hygeia from Tegea. Peloponnese 360 b.C.
Made of casting stone with an antique, ivory-colored finish.
Approx. 120mm (12cm) x 60mm (6cm) x 70mm (7cm)
History
In Greek mythology, Hygeia (Ὑγιεία) -- or Hygeia (Ὑγεία) -- was a daughter of Asclepius. She was the goddess of health, cleanliness and sanitation and afterwards, the moon. She also played an important part in her father's cult. While her father was more directly associated with healing, she was associated with the prevention of sickness and the continuation of good health. Her name is the source of the word "hygiene".