Companion of Diana

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Diana's companion commissioned for Marly's park paid between 1710 and 1715, but dated on marble in 1717. Installed at Versailles from 1824 to 1884. In ancient Roman mythology, Diana was a powerful goddess associated with hunting, the moon, and nature, having control over wild animals and woodlands. Her ability to communicate with animals made her one of the most revered deities. Eventually, she was linked to the Greek goddess Artemis, but her origins remained unique in Italy. Diana's worship spread throughout ancient Rome, and she remains a respected figure in Roman Neopaganism and Stregheria. As a virgin goddess of childbirth, Diana watched over women with care. She was part of a trio of maiden goddesses, along with Minerva and Vesta, who vowed to remain unmarried. Oak groves held sacred significance for Diana, as did deer. According to myth, Diana was born alongside her twin brother Apollo on Delos Island, the daughter of Jupiter and Latona. Alongside Egeria, a water nymph and skilled midwife, and Virbius, the woodland god, Diana formed a powerful triad in Roman mythology.