Description

An illustration from the cycle “The Ancient Lithuanian Faith.”

It depicts Gabija, the Goddess of Fire and the household hearth, greatly revered by the ancient Lithuanians-nature worshippers. The Lithuanians not only offered sacrifices to the goddess but also cared for her as if she were a person: they made sure she was “well fed,” even “laid a bed” for her, put her to rest, covered her, and lulled her to sleep. It was believed that fire, like a human being, needed to wash after a day’s work, so clean water was always left near the hearth. To “prepare a bed” for the fire meant carefully arranging the embers. While making the goddess’s bed, prayers were recited, asking her to remain calm and not set the house on fire.

A signed certificate of authenticity is attached.