Beautiful antique cast iron chimney back: The abduction of Persephone by Hades

This beautiful cast iron chimney back dates back to the 19th century. Made in France, it is in perfect condition. It depicts a Greek mythology scene: the abduction of Persephone by Hades. This scene is highlighted by a double frame and foliage motifs.

In Greek mythology, Persephone, daughter of Zeus and Demeter, is the wife of Hades, brother of Zeus and Poseidon and Lord of the Underworld.

The story relates that Persephone was so beautiful that her mother Demeter raised her in secret. One day, while she was picking flowers, Persephone was noticed by Hades who wanted her as his queen. He abducted the girl who alerted her mother in vain.

To avoid saddening his wife and his brother Zeus made a compromise: Persephone would stay 6 months with Hades (autumn and winter) in the underworld, and 6 months with her mother on earth (spring and summer).

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