PSYCHOPOMPOS - screen printed backpatch As a symbol the serpent has been associated with a plentitude of meanings in different cultures and religions. While it may represent wisdom or fertility for some, it may evoke negative associations to others. In ancient Greece the serpent was not only associated with renewal and rebirth, but also with the transition between life and death. Hermes, the messenger God who travels between the worlds is commonly known to hold a staff with two entwined Serpents - the so-called "Caduceus". With this serpent-staff Hermes has the ability to wake the dead and send the living to the underworld. That is why he was given the function of a 'Psychopompos', a "guide of souls". In this illustration the serpent is moving from a chalice or cup, which is a symbol of life, prosperity and abundance towards a skull, commonly associated with death and thus symbolizing the transition from life to afterlife. ca. 38 x 30 cm. This patch is designed and screen printed by myself in my home studio. Each patch is printed and cut individually by hand. The colours I use are eco friendly water based screen printing inks, the fabric is black cotton canvas. IMPORTANT INFO: After they're sewn on the patches are machine-washable at 40°C. To avoid fraying please make sure to fold the edges inward with an iron prior to sewing the patch on and use stitches that go around the edge (like buttonhole stitches) rather than stitching parallel to the edge. Worldwide tracked shipping. Thank you for stopping by!
