The Guardian of The Egg

The Guardian of the Egg explores the myths and rituals of ancient Roman and pre-Roman polytheistic religions in the Castelli Romani area, with a particular focus on the role of women and their relationship with the magical and natural worlds.

The project title, The Guardian of the Egg, is inspired by Leonora Carrington’s homonymous work. This choice stems from a deep thematic affinity: the project shares central elements with Carrington’s artistic vision, such as the cult and symbolism of the Great Mother (a primordial female deity found in diverse forms across a wide range of cultures, civilizations, and peoples throughout the world since prehistory). Within this realm, women possess religious and spiritual powers, holding the ability to control the forces of nature, acting as protectors of life, yet also potential bringers of death. The female figures at the heart of this photographic series are elusive and powerful, soulful and resilient: they are priestesses capable of foretelling the future while wielding the lituus; they are guardians of the egg, a symbol of life and rebirth; they are nymphs at peace with animals, and spirits moving through the night.