Vertumnus

myminifactory

In ancient Roman mythology, Vertumnus emerged as a multifaceted deity, revered for his powers over seasons, change, and plant growth, while also commanding respect from gardeners and fruit tree enthusiasts alike. With unparalleled mastery of transformation at his command, according to the esteemed poet Ovid in his epic work Metamorphoses (book fourteen), Vertumnus cleverly deceived Pomona by morphing into a wizened crone, thus gaining effortless entry into her lush orchard. Subsequently, he employed a cautionary tale of star-crossed lovers Iphis and Anaxarete to win Pomona's heart, weaving an intricate narrative that would leave the unsuspecting goddess smitten. This captivating account of Vertumnus and Pomona has been hailed as the sole authentic Latin tale within Ovid's Metamorphoses.