‘Where in ancient art and architecture does the symbol of the Flower of Life Appear?’

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AI – ‘The Flower of Life, a geometric pattern of overlapping circles often representing the “blueprint of creation” in sacred geometry, appears in various ancient art and architectural sites around the world, most notably in Egypt, Mesopotamia, and Asia. The symbol has been found in diverse locations, ranging from temple carvings to mosaics and personal artifacts. 

Key Ancient Locations

  • Egypt (The Osirion at Abydos): The most famous depiction is on a red granite pillar in the Temple of Osiris (Osireion) in Abydos, appearing as multiple “flowers” (specifically 19-circle patterns) that seem to be burned or drawn on the stone rather than carved. While some speculate these are 6,000 years old, research suggests they may date from 535 BC to the 2nd/4th century CE, likely added by later visitors.
  • Mesopotamia (Assyria): One of the oldest examples is found in the palace of King Ashurbanipal in Dur-Šarrukin, dating back to 645 BC.
  • China (The Forbidden City): The “Fu-Dog” (Guardian Lion) figures at the Forbidden City in Beijing have a sphere-shaped Flower of Life beneath their paws.
  • India: The pattern appears in ancient temples in India, including the Hampi ruins.
  • Turkey (Ephesus): The symbol is present in the ancient city of Ephesus.
  • Israel: It has been found in ancient synagogues in the Galilee and Masada. 

Other Notable Ancient Appearances

  • Mycenae (Greece): The Mycenaean civilization (16th century BC) featured this pattern, often called a “six-petal rosette” or “daisy wheel,” on gold discs found in graves.
  • Ancient Rome/Pompeii: The design was used in Roman mosaic floors, such as those found in Pompeii and the Domus dell’Ortaglia in Brescia.
  • European Medieval Context: It was often found on the fonts of early European churches and as a protective mark (“daisy wheel”) to keep away evil. 

Contextual Usage

The Flower of Life in ancient art is often associated with:

  • Rebirth and Funerary Rites: Due to its resemblance to a blooming flower, it was frequently used to symbolize the cycle of life, death, and rebirth.
  • Fertility: In Assyrian contexts, it is linked to the worship of Baal.
  • Sacred Geometry: It acts as a foundational template, often holding other shapes like the “Seed of Life” and “Tree of Life”. ‘