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Votive Relief to Asclepius C016 / 8805
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Votive Relief to Asclepius C016 / 8805
This votive relief to Asclepius is a polyvisceral ceramic plaque shaped like an open human chest with some of the internal organs showing (3-2nd century BC). In the Greco-Roman world, where it was believed that some gods were responsible for ill-heath, the sick and their families appealed for help to Asculepius, the most famous god of healing. This votive was found in Rome on the banks of the Tiber near the Temple of Aesculapius, known as the the Asklepeion Sanctuary, on the island of Tiburina. Here there were facilities for the treatment of illnesses. The sick and their families came to the temple with their votive offerings either in thanksgiving or in supplication, often in the form of a small replica of a body part. Many anatomical votives have been discovered on or near the Tiburina island
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 9244363
© SHEILA TERRY/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Asclepius Greece Healing Human Chest Illness Internal Organs Offering Roman Rome Sanctuary Sickness Temple Aesculapius Asklepion Epidaurus Ex Voto Faith Healing Greco Greco Roman Tiber Votive
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases a remarkable votive relief dedicated to Asclepius, the revered god of healing in the Greco-Roman world. Crafted during the 3rd-2nd century BC, this polyvisceral ceramic plaque takes on the shape of an open human chest, revealing some intricately detailed internal organs. Discovered near the Temple of Aesculapius on Rome's Tiber Island, known as the Asklepeion Sanctuary, this votive offers a glimpse into ancient beliefs surrounding health and well-being. In times when illness struck, individuals and their families turned to Asclepius for assistance. The faithful would visit temples like this one with offerings in gratitude or supplication. These offerings often took the form of small replicas representing body parts affected by ailments. Many anatomical votives have been unearthed in close proximity to Tiburina island throughout history. The significance of this particular votive lies not only in its artistic beauty but also in its historical context. It serves as a testament to faith healing practices prevalent during that era and sheds light on how people sought divine intervention for their physical afflictions. Through this mesmerizing image captured by Sheila Terry from Science Photo Library, we are transported back in time to witness a tangible connection between spirituality and medicine—a reminder that even centuries ago, humans were driven by hope and belief when faced with sickness and suffering.
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