5.8 x 8.3 inch, ink
Do you know that the first mermaid is actually a Syrian goddess? Atargatis is the chief goddess of Northern Syria, primarily goddess of fertility, but as the baalat (mistress) of her city and people. She is responsible of their protection and well-being. She is described as a mermaid-goddess of Ascalon. The story of Atargatis becoming a mermaid is a sad tale. It is said that she fell in love with a shepherd and had a daughter who would become queen of Assyria. One day, Atargatis accidentally killed her husband. Out of guilt, she committed suicide by drown herself into a lake. Thus she was turned into a mermaid.
Side note: I admit that this is not one of the best ink drawings. Fun fact is that the composition is inspired by the reverse coin of Demetrius lll. The coin depicts Atargatis in her mermaid form, veiled, holding an egg, flanked by barley stocks.
Trying to explore new approaches in drawing creepy and cute characters with Draw This In Your Style. I really love the colours on this character, really enjoyed painting her!
