A Painting of Pomona By Jean Ranc
One of the prominent figures featured within Havilah Babcock’s front hall is Pomona, the goddess of the orchard. Throughout the house, Havilah tells stories about himself, his life, and his beliefs, and this is no exception. The story of Vertumnus and Pomona Vertumnus, the Roman god of seasons and change, wishes to court the beautiful Pomona, however, much to his dismay, she rejects his proposal. After many failed attempts to impress her, Vertumnus then resorts to an unusual plan. Because he is the god of change, he changes himself into an old woman and meets Pomona in her orchard. After some small talk, Vertumnus, as the old woman, tries to convince Pomona that they are a good match. He proceeds to tell her a story about the relationship between elm trees and grapevines. He explains that the most efficient way to grow grapes is on an elm tree, where grape vines can reach the sunlight. Because of the elm’s ability to withstand pruning, it is the ideal tree to grow grapes on. Although Pomona is skeptical about the usefulness of the elm tree, she comes to respect the plant. Shortly after, Vertumnus reveals himself to Pomona, and they fall in love. Not only does this story connect the stained glass windows on the landing to the wallpaper in the front hall, but Havilah chose to build the house next to an elm tree, connecting the exterior design to the interior. Much like the doors in the front hall, which boast ornamental male birds, and the front hall fireplace, based on the "The Defense of Guenevere", this story shows the switching of gender roles, one of the main themes of Havilah's design. |
https://roberthorvat30.files.wordpress.com/2014/07/francesco_melzi_-_pomona_and_vertumnus_-_wga147941.jpg
https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/3/3c/Jean_Ranc_Pomona.JPG
Other Pictures Courtesy of Mr. Peter Adams
https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/3/3c/Jean_Ranc_Pomona.JPG
Other Pictures Courtesy of Mr. Peter Adams