Dolphins were a popular motif in Roman art. They were used as amulets or depicted as statues in bronze, as well as on mosaics, frescoes and on the reverse of coins. They appear frequently in mythology, often helping Classical heroes such as Theseus, as well as being associated with a number of gods, including Bacchus, Apollo, Venus and Cupid. Within the creation myth written by the Latin author, Nonnus, during the 5th century AD. He claims in his epic poem the ‘Dionysiaca’, that a dolphin carried Aphrodite from the sea to the island of Cyprus. The dolphin was closely associated with the sphere of sensual love, bearing an amatory symbolism and therefore are often seen with the goddess of love, Venus.
For more information about the meanings of animals in Roman art, see our relevant blog post: Animal Symbolism in Roman Art.
To find out more about intaglios and Roman gods, please visit our relevant blog posts: Engraved Gemstones in Ancient Rome and Roman Gods in Mythology.
