Rheinisches Landesmuseum, Bonn

Autumn (12th cent.)

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Detail of the Hanseschale or Annus Bowl found in a Rhine riverbed near Rees, Niederrhein. Made of engraved copper, probably 12th century.

In the middle is the enthroned and crowned ANNUS, personification of the year. As the ruler over time he represents God, creator of the orderly cosmos. He holds a sun disk (SOL) in his right hand, a crescent moon (LUNA) in his left, and is surrounded by representatives of the four seasons: VER (Spring) scatters seeds; AESTAS (Summer) is a woman in the midst of many plants; AUTUMNU(S) holds a vine knife; and HIEMPS (Winter) warms himself by a fire. Some representations are similar on other Annus bowls, such as the bowl from Heimbach, this Annus bowl is so far unique.

1/24/08 2:08 PM
Canon EOS 400D DIGITAL
File name: 1134c

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