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In the heart of the ancient city of Timacum Minus, nestled among the ruins, |
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a timeless relic was discovered: the head of Fortuna, crafted from pristine white marble. |
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This exquisite piece, a testament to the artistry of its time, |
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bore the serene and dignified features of the goddess of fortune herself. |
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Her hair, meticulously combed into soft curls, gathered into a low bun parted gracefully in the middle. |
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Atop her head rested a kalathus, a basket-shaped cap symbolizing abundance and prosperity. |
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Fortuna face, with its regular features, told a story of divine grace and authority. |
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Her high forehead and large, expressive eyes, emphasized by delicately carved pupils, |
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imparted a sense of wisdom and insight. A straight, |
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sharp nose and a prominent chin further accentuated the solemnity of her visage, |
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capturing the essence of a deity who presided over fate and fortune. |
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The head of Fortuna, however, bore the scars of time and conflict. |
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During the bombing of Nis in 1944, the statue suffered damage, leaving the kalathus chipped and broken. |
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Yet, even in its damaged state, the head retained its majestic aura, a silent witness to the trials and tribulations of history. |
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In Roman religion, Fortuna, |
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known as Tyche in Greek mythology, was revered as the goddess of wealth and fate, the very embodiment of luck. |
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She was often depicted with symbols of her dominion: a rudder to steer the course of destiny, |
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a ball to represent the fickleness of luck, a wheel of fortune to signify the ever-changing nature of life, |
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and a cornucopia to symbolize abundance. |
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In this particular representation, she was adorned with the kalathus, underscoring her role as a provider of prosperity. |
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As the head of Fortuna stands today, it continues to evoke a sense of awe and reverence. |
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It tells a story of ancient beliefs, divine authority, and the enduring quest for fortune and fate. |
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This marble head, with its timeless beauty and historical significance, |
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remains a powerful reminder of the rich cultural heritage of the ancient world. |