- Maurizio Sannibale –
Figure 6.18 Egyptian amulet with zigzag motif in linear granulation. 1900–1800 bc.
London, British Museum. Photo © The Trustees of The British Museum.Figure 6.19 Ornamental fi bula in gold. Cerveteri, Regolini-Galassi Tomb.
Museo Gregoriano Etrusco 20552. Photo © Musei Vaticani.the Animals, with a reference to the strength of the life cycle and the regenerative power
of nature in this world. This sphere is physically and conceptually separated by water,
symbolized by the zigzag patterns on the cross-piece that, if we accept the similarity of
the Homeric plunge into the abyss of Hades, also carries inherent allusion to death.^29 This
hiatus is reconstructed from the palmettes and lotus fl owers hanging from the ends of the
cross-piece. The palm alludes to the Tree of Life and combines with the lotus, a powerful
reminder of regenerative power. The bow of the fi bula rises from water, furrowed by
water birds that bring into contact air, water and earth; this heavenly world is protected
by legions of winged griffi ns, which guarantee inviolability, and reference the parallel
sphere of the Underworld. Additionally, the motif of waterfowl, of Villanovan ancestry,