The goddess Isis in Copenhagen, Denmark

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The goddess of fertility, Isis, was widely revered across the Mediterranean, and this depiction of a priestess belonging to her cult is from Rome. She holds a vessel for water, used in purification rituals. Isis is a goddess from ancient Egypt's polytheistic pantheon. Her worship originated in Ancient Egyptian religion and later spread throughout the Roman empire and beyond. Today, Isis remains widely worshipped by many pagans in diverse religious contexts; including distinct pagan religions, the modern Goddess movement, and interfaith organizations such as the Fellowship of Isis. Isis was revered as the ideal mother and wife, as well as the patroness of nature and magic. She listened to the prayers of slaves, sinners, artisans, and the downtrodden, while also being a guardian for the wealthy, maidens, aristocrats, and rulers. Isis is often depicted as the mother of Horus, the falcon-headed deity associated with kingship (although in some traditions, Horus's mother was Hathor). She is also known as protector of the dead and goddess of children. The name Isis means "Throne." Her headdress is a throne, symbolizing her role as the personification of the pharaoh's power. The pharaoh was depicted as her child, who sat on the throne she provided. Her cult was widespread throughout Egypt, with significant temples at Behbeit El-Hagar in the Nile delta and, beginning with Nectanebo I (380-362 BCE), on the island of Philae in Upper Egypt. In the typical form of her myth, Isis was the first daughter of Geb, god of the Earth, and Nut, goddess of the Sky. She married her brother, Osiris, and conceived Horus with him. Isis played a crucial role in the resurrection of Osiris when he was murdered by Set. Using her magical powers, she restored his body to life after gathering the scattered body parts. This myth became highly significant during the Greco-Roman period. For example, it was believed that the Nile River flooded annually due to the tears of sorrow Isis wept for Osiris. Osiris's death and rebirth were relived each year through rituals. The worship of Isis eventually spread throughout the Greco-Roman world, continuing until the suppression of paganism in the Christian era. The popular motif of Isis nursing her son Horus lived on in a Christianized context as the iconic image of Mary nursing her infant son Jesus from the fifth century onward. (Credit: Wikipedia) This object is part of "Scan The World," a non-profit initiative introduced by MyMiniFactory. Through this project, we are creating a digital archive of fully 3D printable sculptures, artworks, and landmarks from around the world for public access free of charge. Scan The World is an open-source community effort; if you have interesting items nearby and would like to contribute, email stw@myminifactory.com to learn how you can help. Scanned: Photogrammetry (Processed using Agisoft PhotoScan)