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Elizabeth A.Sackler Center for Feminist Art

Nerthus

Mythic, worshipped by Germanic peoples in Denmark and Old England, exact dates uncertain

The center of worship of Nerthus was in Denmark, although cults can also be found in Old England and parts of Germany. She was an Earth Mother figure and goddess of fertility and had a shrine in a secret island grove where most of her rituals were carried out. There is some speculation about her gender: she may have been androgynous or truly a female goddess, most likely with a male consort and possibly mothering the goddess Freya.

Judy Chicago (American, b. 1939). <em>The Dinner Party</em> (Heritage Floor; detail), 1974–79. Porcelain with rainbow and gold luster, 48 x 48 x 48 ft. (14.6 x 14.6 x 14.6 m). Brooklyn Museum, Gift of the Elizabeth A. Sackler Foundation, 2002.10. © Judy Chicago. Photograph by Jook Leung Photography
Judy Chicago (American, b. 1939). The Dinner Party (Heritage Floor; detail), 1974–79. Porcelain with rainbow and gold luster, 48 x 48 x 48 ft. (14.6 x 14.6 x 14.6 m). Brooklyn Museum, Gift of the Elizabeth A. Sackler Foundation, 2002.10. © Judy Chicago. Photograph by Jook Leung Photography

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