Today the planet Neptune completes one full revolution of the Sun since its discovery in 1846. Neptune has of course been orbiting the Sun for millions of years, taking 165 years to orbit our nearest star, but its only since 1846 that its existence has been known by humans. It was the first planet to be discovered by mathematical calculation, being not visible except by telescope.
In mythology Neptune was the ruler of seas and oceans and this is reflected in its designated symbol of a Triton. Neptune is also associated with the horse, the god often being depicted riding a shell-shaped chariot drawn by horses.
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| Roman Mosaic 2/3 century CE |
Astrologically Neptune is the ruler of the Zodiac sign of Pisces as well as hospitals, prisons, mental institutions and monasteries; in fact all places which involve a withdrawal from society are believed to be under the rule of Neptune as well as psychic phenomena such as dreams, hypnotism, extra-sensory perception, illusion and deception in general. Alcohol and drug-taking, especially hallucinogenic mushrooms, along with melodrama and cinema are all classic examples of Neptunian influence. Neptune is also associated with humility and spiritual illumination.
Neptune was a popular subject for Renaissance and baroque fountains in Italy, in particular Berni's Trevi fountain in Rome. The Roman god of the seas influence in popular culture continues in the curious ritual of paying homage to Neptune when crossing the equator, especially upon cruises.
Neptune was a popular subject for Renaissance and baroque fountains in Italy, in particular Berni's Trevi fountain in Rome. The Roman god of the seas influence in popular culture continues in the curious ritual of paying homage to Neptune when crossing the equator, especially upon cruises.
Thanks! Lovely; I'll go to the appropriate sites to check further on Neptune, the planet. As for Neptune/Poseidon as Amphitrite's consort, their horses for a shell chariot (in the sea) are hippocamps, whose tails, in this mosaic, break through the water at the bottom of the picture.
ReplyDeleteHi Hydrotaphia,
ReplyDeleteHope you are well. Just catching up on your postings ...
As usual you blog the most interesting and esoteric things. You make me feel completely uneducated at times but your writings are good remedy!
Does this mean that Neptune presides over the writing of fiction and misremembered memoir also?
I notice you have changed your profile picture to the carving at St John Maddermarket? Suits you.