Hygieia

About this artwork.

The sandstone relief above the main entrance of the former Hygienic-Pharmacological Laboratory represents Hygieia. She is one of the daughters of Asklepios, in Greek mythology the god of medicine and healing. Hygieia is the goddess of health, while her sister Panacea is the goddess of medicine. 
 
Hygieia occupies a central position in the composition. She sits leaning against a pile of books and is surrounded by pots, bottles and – perhaps medicinal – plants. In her left hand she holds a staff around which a snake meanders: the Rod of Asclepius or asklepian This staff has been the symbol for doctors and pharmacies for centuries, just like the mortar and pestle that can be seen in the relief on the right. The symbolism of the bird at her feet is not clear. 
 
The sandstone relief was made in 1883 by Emilius Bourgonjon. The former laboratory, dating from the same year, was built to a design by Chief Government Architect J. van Lokhorst.

Facts & Figures.

• Design
  Emilius Bourgonjon

• District
  Centrum

• Year of creation
  1883

• Art type
  Relief, Art in / on a building

• Material
  Sandstone (Udelfanger)

• Dimensions
  h 0,85 m