Latin picture sources - Picture 2 Flashcards
What does this sarcophagus depict?
The sarcophagus depicts the joining of hands, a key part of the ceremony in traditional cum manu marriages.
What does this event signify?
This event signifies the handing over of the bride from her father to the groom.
Describe what the next part of the ceremony would be like.
The next part of the ceremony would be the torch-lit procession from the bridal home to the husband’s home, accompanied by traditional songs, dancing, and merriment.
What is the Latin phrase for ‘the joining of hands’?
Iunctio dextrarum.
How many figures accompanied the pair originally?
Originally four figures accompanied the pair.
How many are lost?
Two of which are now lost.
What does the hand on the bride’s side show?
The hand on the bride’s side is the only surviving part of her companion.
Which God would have been squeezed between the bridal pair?
The young god of marriage, Hymen, would have been squeezed in between the bridal pair.
What is some evidence for this God’s involvement in the sarcophagus?
The flame of his torch on the lower part of the bride’s dress.
Which God stands between the couple?
The goddess Harmony stands between the couple.
How do we know who this God is?
A female figure stands between the couple, with her arms around the shoulders of the bride and groom, in a pose similar to that depicted on the sarcophagus in Picture 1.
What does the scroll in the groom’s hand represent?
The groom holds a scroll in his hand, which may be the marriage contract, traditionally signed by ten witnesses.
