Sarcophagus Gragment: Endymion receives the Moon Goddess Selene

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In ancient Greek mythology, Endymion emerges as a breathtakingly handsome young man, often portrayed as a shepherd or an astronomer of great skill. According to myth, he spends most of his life in slumber, either due to a curse cast by Zeus himself or by choice, seeking eternal youth and vitality. Some accounts even suggest that Selene, the powerful goddess of the Moon, has captivated him with her love and beauty, inspiring him to surrender to eternal rest while waiting for her arrival. This particular representation showcases Endymion awake and eagerly anticipating his lunar lover, a rare occurrence among the numerous Roman reliefs depicting this mythological subject.