Handcrafted Replica of Hera – Queen of the Gods
Details
Step into the world of ancient Greece with this beautifully handcrafted replica of Hera, queen of the gods. Inspired by a figure featured in Greek Terracottas by R. A. Higgins, this piece draws directly from an example said to originate at Paestum, a major Greek city on the Tyrrhenian Sea, a place steeped in mythology and history.
The original figure, now in the British Museum, dates to around 400 BC and stands as a reminder of Hera’s enduring importance within the classical world. Known as Hera to the Greeks and Juno to the Romans, she was one of the twelve Olympian deities, the sister and consort of Zeus (Jupiter), and the protector of women, marriage, and childbirth. As queen of the gods, her power and influence were woven into the very fabric of Greek and Roman life.
This figure depicts Hera seated on a high-backed throne, holding a phiale (libation bowl) and a bowl of pomegranates. These attributes speak volumes about her significance. The phiale hints at her role in ritual offerings, while the pomegranates evoke fertility, abundance, life, and rebirth. She is shown wearing a layered chiton, a belt, and a diadem signifying her royal status, with an epiblema shawl draped over her head, the image of piety, modesty, and divine power.
To most Greek and Roman women, Hera was far more than the jealous queen often portrayed in later myths. She was seen as a protector and ally, standing beside women during some of the most daunting moments of their lives, marriage (often to men they did not choose) and childbirth, when every birth carried real danger. The myths that have survived were largely written by men of the time, so it is unsurprising that her nurturing, steadfast roles were less recorded. What those stories could not erase, however, was the deep reverence she inspired in her followers.
Although temples dedicated to Hera were found across the Greek and Roman worlds, her importance was particularly enshrined at the Temple of Hera at Olympia, the oldest temple at the sanctuary, and one of the most venerable in all Greece. Women would travel there to seek Hera’s support for their greatest hopes and desires. Her blessing could bring joy and prosperity, while her displeasure was feared as a source of suffering and misfortune.
Holding this replica in your hands is to touch a fragment of that world, a time when women, pilgrims, and worshippers sought divine favour from the queen of the gods herself, a figure who has come to symbolise endurance, strength, and solidarity across the centuries.
Materials
White earthenware or red terracotta
Dimensions
Approx. 180 mm tall
Production
As with all our Museum Quality Replicas, this figure has been entirely handmade in Northumberland using natural clay and tools inspired by those used by ancient artisans. Every piece is unique due to variations caused by the firing process, so while you may not receive the exact piece pictured, your figure will be a one-of-a-kind link to the past.
Ordering Information
‘Add to Basket’ Items: Ready to ship immediately.
‘Pre-order’ Items: Handmade to order within 90 days (longer for international orders).
If your order includes both, they will be shipped together once all items are ready.
Shipping
All items are sent using a second-class postal service as standard. If you require first-class shipping, please contact us for a custom quote.
Bring the power, protection, and symbolism of Hera into your home, order your handcrafted replica today, and hold a piece of ancient devotion and artistry in your hands.
