CERES

It is suggested that the statue beside the pond at the end of the yew tree walk in the formal garden is that of Ceres.

Ceres was the Roman goddess of agriculture and grain, a kind and benevolent goddess also known for her motherly love. She was known to the Greeks as Demeter. She was loved for her service to mankind in giving the gift of the harvest.

The Romans had a saying “Fit for Ceres”, meaning “excellent, splendid”.

Ceres is often depicted holding a sceptre or farming tool in one hand, and a basket of flowers, fruit or grain in the other. Sometimes, as at Emo, she wears a garland made from ears of corn.

The word Cereals is derived from her name.