The constellation Virgo has multiple different origins depending on which mythology is being studied. Most myths generally view Virgo as a virgin/maiden with heavy association with wheat. Virgo is the sixth astrological sign in the Zodiac. It spans the 150-180th degree of the zodiac. Under the tropical zodiac, the Sun transits this area on average between August 23 and September 22, and the Sun transits the constellation of Virgo from approximately September 16 to October 30. Individuals born during these dates, depending on which system of astrology they subscribe to, may be called Virgos or Virgoans. The symbol of the maiden is based on Astraea. In Greek mythology, she was the last immortal to abandon Earth at the end of the Silver Age, when the gods fled to Olympus – hence the sign’s association with Earth. Reference: Wikipedia
Below are some examples of how Virgo has been depicted in Art and Design.
A Victorian fancy-link necklace and a pendant The two colour necklace composed of alternate curb-shaped links and navette-shaped panels, applied with ropetwist wirework and bead decoration, the circular Virgo pendant decorated to both sides, signed ‘Becker’, necklace length 48cm, pendant diameter 2.2cm. (2)
Sold for £ 750 inc. premium at Bonhams in 2013
DAVID WEBB ‘VIRGO’ PENDANT BROOCH Designed as a round textured gold pendant featuring a diamond set Virgo sign within a diamond frame Metal: 18k yellow gold and platinum Diamonds: 97 round diamonds with approximate total weight of 2.75 – 3 carats Size/Dimensions: 4.4 cm diameter Signature: WEBB Marks: 18k Plat Gross Weight: 36 grams Circa 1970’s
Sold for USD 4,375 at Christies in 2016
An 18 karat yellow gold and red enamel Virgo ring, from the Zodiac collection. Elizabeth Gage. The tapered red enamel band set with polished gold astrological symbols. Stamped Gage, with English assay mark and maker’s mark. Size 6 1/2. Gross weight is approximately 12.8 grams.
Sold for $1,500 at AVCTION in 2019
August; Virgo American 1911 Artist A. Lenz, Printer Edward H. Mitchell (American, 1867–1932), Publisher Johnston Ayers Co.
Reference: Museum of Fine Arts Boston
Drawing in pencil and watercolour on paper Marks and inscriptions ‘MARCH’ ’18EJP69′ Monogram signature of Edward John Poynter within the date 1869. ‘ARIES’ Refers to the zodiac sign of Aries, represented by the image of a ram (shown underneath). ‘DESIGN FOR SPACE ON / RIGHT-HAND OF LARGE / WINDOW’ ‘REFRESHMENT RO / S.K.M. / JULY 20.1’ Inscription partially missing where edge of paper is torn. Refers to the Refreshment Rooms at the South Kensington Museum, now the V&A. ‘DETAIL / OF BORDER. / FULL SIZE.’ Refers to a detail in the left-hand margin which shows the border design to be used for the tile panel in full size.
Reference: © Victoria and Albert Museum
March Calendar with Swan and Aries in roundels
Reference: The Walters Art Museum
