The Great Astrological End-Time

The Apocalypse is upon us, a part of a great astrological end-time cycle that is impacting humanity today. Global warming is now a reality. Devastating climate changes, including earthquakes and volcanoes, have been getting worse since 1970. We have also seen an epidemic rise in depression and suicide in this same time period. And we are heading for a Sixth Big Extinction of almost all life on earth.

The astrological signs Virgo and Pisces sit in opposition to each other across the zodiac, creating an axis that acts as a trigger for end-time energies. Virgo rules disintegration and extinction, and Pisces rules dissolution, giving to the times occupied by these signs the quality of dramatic change. The table is cleaned and washed in order to create space for a new feast to be set.

In addition to ages, there are twelve eras (my terminology) in every age, and twelve phases in every era. We sit at the beginning of the Pisces Era of the Age of Pisces, 1980 to 2160. This is a doubly intense Pisces/Virgo bath of dissolution and disintegration adding greatly to the end-time quality of this time.

Since the Pisces Phase (1965 to 1980) of the Aquarius Era (1800 to 1980) of the Age of Pisces, our history has taken on a decidedly end-time flavor. Toxic industrial and nuclear pollution made headlines after 1965. A sudden rise in species extinctions became a major concern. International and domestic terrorism exploded onto the scene in Europe and America. Welfare increased dramatically, and inflation began to tear at the economic fabric of our lives. Depression and suicide rates began to climb. And these trends have continued to today. Since 1970 weather patterns began to change, and earthquakes and volcanoes began to increase in frequency and intensity. Global warming is now a scientific fact with devastating projections for our future over the next century. And many researchers say that we have just now entered a Sixth Big Extinction event that will affect all life on earth.

We can look at history to get a perspective on this. The Virgo Eras of the last two ages reveal a history of social and political fragmentation resulting in periods of feudalistic isolation. The Virgo Era of the Age of Aries, from 1080 to 900 BCE, witnessed the internal social and political fragmentation of the Egyptian Empire, the breakdown into warring feudalistic city-states of the First Assyrian Empire, and the establishment of the feudalistic Greek city-states as Greeks moved into their present homeland.

The Virgo Era of the Age of Pisces, 900 to 1080 CE, saw the same fragmentation of culture. Europe disintegrated into small, isolated cities and manors in a system known as manoralism. The Islamic empire fragmented into three separate Caliphates. The Tang Dynasty in China devolved into a fragmented feudalistic system where local warlords ruled the country in the name of the emperor. The Mayans in Central America suddenly and mysteriously disappeared from their homeland after 900 CE.

The Pisces Eras also reveal histories of social and political confusion and breakdown. During the Pisces Era of the Age of Aries, 180 to 0 BCE, the Late Republic in Rome after 200 BCE, entered a period of severe internal violence and social dissolution. There was a massive rise in the number of slaves imported into the city. Citizens were pushed out of their jobs, and a huge welfare state was created. Gladiatorial games were created to keep the people occupied and off the streets. Huge slum tenements were built on the outskirts of the city to house the poor. A widening division between rich and poor split the city as the middle class dissolved and slid into poverty. Politics became a path to wealth and power as greed replaced civic responsibility. Similar trends of social dissolution and internal violence are also seen in the Early Han Dynasty in China between 200 and 0 BCE.

It is easy to see the beginnings of these same trends in our modern world over the last few decades. Welfare and entitlement programs have become a necessary part of the political landscape. Global warming and climate changes are markers for something dramatic that is happening today.

Is this something to be worried about? The smaller Virgo and Pisces Eras create times of social and political breakdown. The longer ages would be times of major end-time scenarios. The Age of Virgo from 12,960 to 10,800 BCE, sits opposite to our present Age of Pisces in the zodiac. At approximately 10,000 BCE, there is evidence of a huge global extinction of large animals, the Pleistocene Extinction, possibly caused by some type of cosmic cataclysm. This is very close to the end of the Age of Virgo, close enough to fit this end-time cycle.

The Beresovka Mammoth was found flash frozen with fresh undigested buttercups in its mouth and stomach. To keep food from the continued process of digestion, the mammoth would had to have been flash frozen to -150 degrees Fahrenheit almost immediately. Also found in Siberia are temperate trees frozen with fruit still on the branches. The muck pits of Alaska reveal many thousands of large animals killed and instantly frozen, torn apart and mixed with the torn trunks of trees, as if they were all violently thrown down with some superhuman force mashing them all together in a single cosmic event.

There was a sudden rise in the level of the world's oceans at around 10,000 BCE as well. Since the 1950s there have been numerous reports of finding underwater manmade megalithic stone walls, stone roads and temples in the Caribbean. More recently a city was discovered under 100 feet of water in the Indian Ocean off the coast of northern India. A recent NASA satellite photograph shows an underwater manmade stone bridge or causeway running from southern India to the island of Sri Lanka. These were all above water prior to 10,000 BCE.

Worldwide, over 500 myths and stories remember at least one such catastrophic world ending tragedy in the past. A handful of them remember more than one such destruction. The ancient Egyptians, who gave to us our ideas about Atlantis, say that there is a regularly recurring cycle of end-time destructions. This is in line with what this astrological end-time cycle reveals.

Now that we are in the Pisces Era within the Age of Pisces since 1980, this could all get worse. The doubly strong astrological energy bath of Pisces dissolution and Virgo disintegration and extinction right now promise apocalypse prior to the promised golden Age of Aquarius, the Millennium of Christ. So, how do we survive into the next age as a species?

The astrology that says that we are in trouble, also tells us to embrace the best of the astrological energies involved. This means embracing the highest Pisces energies, deepening our Pisces spirituality as the best way through this. Pisces rules spirituality. The planet Venus is exalted in Pisces, giving to the religions of this age the heightened impulse to devotion, and expressing selfless and compassionate love to everyone around us, without judgment. We meditate or pray, a Virgo mental technique that allows us to get past our fears, and which helps us to align our personal energies with the spiritual energies of Pisces and with God or Goddess. Expressing these energies in our lives enlivens them for the collective, allowing us to direct the outcome of these times to our own ends.

While the Age of Aquarius is still a good ways off, Pisces rules contact with other worlds, higher worlds. Following the Pisces spiritual path can help us to contact and create heaven on earth right now, without waiting for the golden Age of Aquarius. Pisces rules dreams. We can choose to dream a new world, free from poverty, crime and suffering, and free of destructive prophecy, or at least the more devastating aspects of prophecy. Meditation and prayer in the service of our dreams supports the Aquarius energies of utopia. The planet Mercury, the mind, is exalted in Aquarius. Through positive thinking and affirmations, we can learn to manifest our hopes, dreams and wishes, and create a new utopia, all Aquarius qualities.

The Apocalypse is indeed here. It is riding the wave of an astrologically enlivened end-time cycle. The Golden Age will follow. The astrological qualities of these times, of this end-time, is asking us to become the sons and daughters of God, as Christ foresaw, and take for ourselves the ability to perform all the miracles that Christ performed, and more, in fulfillment of Christ's prophecies regarding us during this transition.

Robert FitzGerald has studied astrological ages and the great astrological end-time cycle for almost 40 years. For more information on this phenomenon please go to http://www.signsofthetimeshistory.com/

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Does It Really Matter Where You Come From?

I think it might just so.

Every region in the world has its own individual characteristics but also includes the attributes of the wider area that is influenced by the history and how their ideology actually evolved.

It does depend on from where you come... as people in different continents have very significant values and approach to life.

In the Third World Countries; no matter which country or continent, there is a lack of basic systems that are essential for survival. There are rising gaps in the rich and the poor, injustice prevails in all walks of life. For an average person even to enjoy the benefits of a normal life feels like a mission. The ones who have the money have the power, those who have the power, have the control.

But when you think about it, these systems just don't emerge like that, they are a result of the wider world domination which we will come to later.

So with the constant struggle to get the basic necessaries, such individuals get into the mode of dealing with the situation and moving on. The struggle to get a home, to get food, clean water. Luxuries (for them) like Education, electricity and gas then become very low on their priority list.

In the Eastern/Asian Countries, Southern European/American, African Countries one can see some strong family support systems with strong ties and relationships. These ties come naturally and are embedded within most and individuals feel obligated to help each other. These values may come from when these countries were invaded and ruled by either the British, French, Romans or Spanish (- list goes on)! When countries are invaded and conquered, the victims then strive to retain their values, identity and culture and can do so by staying together and keeping their own support systems going.

It is not to say that other factors are not involved in the evolution of family systems. But the idea is to understand why it is so strong in these countries rather than the North Western Countries.

Western Countries have their very own values and thoughts, most of them based on 'individualism'. And one can see similar effects of such values in the society. Family systems are not strong enough currently and every member sort of does his/her own thing, that is not to say that all are similar in their function. There are still some very strong value based families that follow the traditional English etiquette and manners and seem to be successful.

But on the other hand, 'majority' of the people in the West take everything for granted. Home, education, health care, social care, food, water running from the taps and strive for luxuries - a vital difference between the rich and poor.

The point I'm trying to put across is that if someone migrates from a certain area, they will bring the full wealth of background with them. For instance if a family has moved to the UK from a small village in India, they will not be able to settle in, adapting the norms of UK immediately. They will live trying to retain their culture as much as they can in the new place, as if trying to cling on to their identities. And I have seen that sometimes these families try so hard to retain their culture that they forget that the people and the place they left behind, have steadily moved on.

So yes it does depend on where one comes from, what background, what experiences and what coping mechanisms people acquire.

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Cultural Perspective

There are many ways to look at cultural differences in an organizational context. The individual's orientation to the world is an important component in determining how that person will view other cultures. An ethnocentric orientation, most often associated with Americans, views the world as being similar to the home country. Thus centrists assume that all people think and act alike, or at least that people from other cultures should think and acts like the centrists. In essence, centrists significantly undervalue the importance of cultural differences in conducting business outside their home country.

The polycentric perspective is one that views every country or culture as unique. This orientation operates with the motto of Think local, act local, where cultural differences become exaggerated and there are few if any opportunities for developing regional economies of scale. In his orientation, cultural differences are over emphasized. Orientation is the perspective, where the individual recognizes similarities and contrasts between and across cultures.

Centrists neither underestimate nor exaggerate the challenges that cultural differences present in conducting business across national boundaries. It is a world-centered perspective that is important to develop in managers who seek an international business career. Using a geocentric orientation, the noted Dutch social scientist has developed the most widely accepted framework for understanding the organizational impact of cultural differences.

His data came from an analysis of cultural differences among groups of employees from different nations who worked for the same global business IBM. Identified four principal components to use in comparing and contrasting cultures as means of analyzing the impact of cultural differences on organizations:

1. Power distance. In cultures that have high power distance, there are large gaps between the haves and have-nots when it comes to career opportunities within business and professional fields. Power distance also refers to the gaps in power and influence within an organizational setting between the executives and middle to frontline managers. In societies that have high power distance, the workers and lower-level managers would be expected to simply follow the orders of the executives without having much empowerment for decision - making at their level.

2. Uncertainty avoidance. Describes cultural differences related to ones need for structure and ones level of comfort with ambiguity. Cultures that are rated low on uncertainty have non structured societies that operate without a high level of formal rules and social norms. Those that are rated high in this dimension reflect people who have a strong need for social order and are uncomfortable with uncertainty.

3. Individualism-collectivism. Reflects the continued of cultures that, on one end, highly value individualism and, on the other end, place a premium on the collectivist needs of the group as a whole.

4. Masculinity-femininity. Those rated low in this dimension, reflecting more attributes, value relationships, harmony, and caring for others more than performance.

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Best Tips for Storing Canvas Paintings

Firstly you should remove all the dust from the surface of canvas oil painting firmly without harming painting with a clean, dry white cotton cloth. Do not use any type of cleaning solutions as they might be containing some harsh chemicals which can spoil your painting.

One most effective and safest way of protecting your painting is by framing the painting or you can also get it done by some professional. The frame will provide support and a measure of protection for your painting. This will also make it easier to store and less likely to sustain damages.

You should select an area in your home where there is no direct sunlight and a constant temperature is maintained at that place. It is very important to keep paintings away from intense temperature and humid conditions so that it may not get stretched or decomposed because of the yeast and moisture.

Area of the house in which you are storing canvas paintings should not be affected by the insects in case you find insects there then use appropriate chemicals to make that area insect free. Some pests like moths and wood lice are very harmful for your paintings as they can destroy the frames and canvas completely. One thing should be considered while making use of insecticides for destroying these insects that hey should not come in contact with the painting as these are strong chemicals and can cause spoil your paintings.

While keeping the painting you should make sure that they are kept erect. In case you are placing multiple paintings together, make use of large sized polystyrene slip sheets so that they paintings may not get spoiled from direct contact of each other. Polystyrene sheets protect your art from any kind of dust, scratches or dents.

Dirty paintings are to be cleaned with proper care, make use of microfiber fabric and mixture of distilled water in which mild detergent is added so that surface of the painting can be cleaned. One more thing which should be considered while cleaning the painting is that, fabric should be completely soft so that it may not cause scratches on the painting. After cleaning the painting with damped fabric allow it to dry in the shade. With taking care of your painting with above stated steps you can maintain true colors of your painting for longer time of your painting for longer time.

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History of Ancient Egyptian Glass

This article briefly goes over the history of Egyptian glass. They were one of the first recorded in history to make glass for utilitarian and aesthetic purposes.

Lucky for us, many Egyptian glass works are preserved well, because of their culture of burying the worldly goods of the dead and the dry climate that prevents decay.

Egyptians were very ahead of the game regarding glass making; they knew before 3000 BC how to use glaze techniques. In the early periods, they created glass pieces modeled after stone or ceramic objects. They also created glass beads, which were highly prized, almost as much as gold and precious stones. Egyptians were also active in the trade of glass objects so that they could spread their techniques and style.

Glass vessels in the round, hollow form that we know appear only after 1500 BC, and it is thought that the conquest of Near Eastern lands triggered the sudden appearance of glass vessels in Egypt.

One common method of glassmaking used by Egyptians was "Cire perdue." The piece was modeled in wax, and then covered with clay. Then the wax would be melted and poured away, so that the gap could be re-filled with molten glass.

Another, most common method was molting glass on a core. A core (made of clay, mud, or straw) in the shape of the desired piece was formed on a metal rod. Then, the core was dipped into molten glass. When the walls of the core with added glass became thick, the object was marvered and annealed. Lastly, the core was removed, leaving a rough interior.

Sky blue and dark blue were some popular colors for glass in Egypt, together with grey, yellow, white, and orange. In later periods, red, green, and violet also appeared and added more variety for the tastes of the wealthy.

Unfortunately, Egyptian glassmaking depended greatly on political circumstances as it frequently does in any other country; thus, between 1200BC and 900BC when the country was in decline, there is little development in glass production.

Later under Alexander the Great and the city of Alexandria, where many Egyptian craftsmen worked, the glass industry flourished again. Alexandria became a center of glassmaking, and Greek culture is also reflected in its style.

In 27 BC Egypt was eventually conquered by the Romans, but its glassmaking style remained for a time after that. Through Roman conquests and trade Egyptian (Alexandrian) glassware was exported throughout the empire.

Interested in beautiful yet practical glassware? Find out more about exquisite hand blown glass vases, bowls, paperweights.

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Japanese Netsuke: Collectors Delight

Japanese netsuke, while it served with a practical purpose in seventeenth century Japan, has in recent times become a treasured art form with immense historical value to both the Western and Eastern worlds. These carved clasps contain such detail as to hold its own in the critical circles of the art world. The time taken to craft the small, almost animate-like figurines leaves a feeling of awe in those who see and touch them. There are stories that art pieces tell with each nick and crevice created by their maker is priceless. It reflects the histories of this cultured and progressive civilization.

The netsuke began as a means of closure. During the Edo period, the robes and kimonos of the Japanese people were without pockets and in a world that based its value system off of simplicity and nature, purses and such of great adornment were looked down upon. From this state of mind and need for a practical means of storing and caring valuables and necessities on one's person, the idea of having a small purse-the inro- evolved. This small purse of clutch could be hung from a string and hidden beneath one's robes. The netsuke became the means by which a person could clasp the purse to his or her neck.

Quite a bit of time and thought were put into the Japanese netsuke. Yes, they were meant to be simple and practical. However, the Japanese culture is rich with myths and spiritualism. It is no wonder that such ideas would present themselves in the forms of the netsuke. People, places, things, religion, sex, no category was left unturned and the netsuke has represented them all. These pieces were made from materials such as hardwoods and ivory, stone and whatever else an artisan could find that was malleable enough to be carved but sturdy enough to be used as more than a trinket.

The Japanese netsuke packs quite a punch for such a small item. The value that they hold today, with aesthetics only, is equal to that of their practical value in Japan during the seventeenth century. They can be found in private homes, popular museums and even on some persons as jewelry or the like. So, while the use of the netsuke has evolved in to something other than what it was created for it is still a treasure to be had and admired by all.

Anita Satin Choudhary writes for JapaneseNetsuke.org. Browse the gallery for a collection of Japanese netsuke and get more information.

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Australian Aboriginal and Immigrant Relationship Explored Through Art

The Edge of the Trees is a sculpture outside the history museum in Sydney Australia. 29 tall wooden poles representing trees are stuck randomly into the ground. At one point 29 different groups of aboriginal people lived in the Sydney area. The words on some of the poles are the names of aboriginal people and places. Other poles have bits of human hair, shell, bone, feathers and ash embedded in them and as you walk among them you hear a soundscape of voices talking in a Australian First Nations language called Koori. The installation Edge of the Trees is an artistic representation of the January day in 1778 when the first fleet of ships filled with convicts and soldiers from Britain arrived in Sydney. The aboriginal people in the area will have watched warily from the 'edge of the trees or the 'forest' as these strange men and women came ashore.

Their wariness was well placed. Initial contact between the aboriginal and white cultures was disastrous for the Australian First Nations. The settlers brought small pox, flu and measles germs with them. The indigenous people had no resistance to these diseases and whole tribes were decimated. Aboriginals were considered no better than animals by many of the first settlers and there are many accounts of native people being hunted for sport. Between 1880 and 1969 more than a 100,000 Australian aboriginal children were forcibly taken away from their parents to be turned into white Christians by the state in residential schools, adoptive homes or institutions. They are known in Australia as the Stolen Generation.

Two intriguing pieces at the Museum of Contemporary Art in Sydney gave further insight into the relationship between the two contrasting cultural groups in Australia. 'Land Deal' by artist Fiona Foley consisted of a huge spiral that had been created on the floor of the museum out of flour. Hanging on the wall behind it were about twenty hatchets, three dozen plain square pieces of mirror and a collection of knives and scissors. The amount of flour used to construct the spiral and the items on the wall represented what the Wurundjeri people of Australia were given by the British in exchange for 600,000 acres of their land. Another Foley installation called 'Blankets' consisted of seven grey government issue blankets with the British crown stamped in the corner. These blankets were traded with the First Nations people for land and sometimes their women's bodies. Each blanket has a different word written on it over and over again. The words are 'Aboriginal', 'Women', 'Property', 'Defiled', 'Ravished', 'Shared', 'Discarded'. An explanation in the museum program provided the added information that sexually transmitted diseases brought to Australia by the early settlers spread rapidly through the First Nations communities.

Several exhibits at the Natural History Museum of Australia illustrated hopeful changes in aboriginal and white relations. A film with native elders telling 'dreaming stories' represents an attempt to preserve the ancient legends and religious beliefs of First Nations people. A colorfully painted bus installed at the museum is one used by Australian Freedom Riders in the early 1960s. Duplicating what they saw happening in the American South thirty students took this bus to Australian aboriginal communities to stage protests because First Nations people were still denied Australian citizenship. Their campaign garnered international media coverage and as a result in 1967 aboriginal people gained the right to vote in Australia. The Declaration of Reconciliation is also on display in the museum. Signed in May of 2000 it is a public apology by the Australian government for the wrongs done to First Nations people in the past.

The relationship between the immigrant and indigenous populations in Australia has been a troubled one. Hopefully in coming generations reconciliation and appreciation will bring about healthy change.

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African Tribal Dance Traditions Still in Practice

Many countries have ceremonial and national dances but African traditional dances are quite different. These dances carry historical and social significance. To this day today, local communities are able to tell the rich history of their country through their own unique dances. These dances give the special events and festivals celebrated in Africa more meaning.

Dances and music are used as an expression of stories, feelings, and history. Each tribe in Africa has its own unique and significant traditional dances.

Two very important components of the dances are the African drum and human voices. The trained singers of the tribes used complicated arrangements and harmony to set the rhythm and pace for the dances. Despite the differences between tribes, in general, the drum binds them all together.

Some Basic Traditional African Dances:

Adzohu - this is a historical and sacred dance that was originally performed as spiritual preparation before a war. However, in today's times, it is performed only mainly for social and cultural events. The dancers wear colourful hats, bells, ankle raffia, and waist cloth. It is said that the dance reinforces cultural identity and builds self-respect to counter Western influence.

Agbekor - this is one of many war dances. This one in particular is performed by the Ewe and Foh peopleduring funerals and in cultural or social events. The dance movements of Agbekor show battlefield tactics like hand combat, surprise attacks, and scouting.

NanDom Bawa - this dance is performed as a thanksgiving, prayer, and celebration dance. It was first done by the Lobi people.

Tokoe - this is a coming of age celebration dance for Ga-Adangme girls. The newly eligible women are presented to the tribe with stylish movements learned in puberty.

Adumu - this is similar to the Tokoe but it is for warriors that have come of age

Traditional African dances can be boiled down to five basic types - the welcome dance, love or celebration dance, coming of age, possession or summoning dance, and warrior dance. The names are quite self-explanatory.

Some welcome dances like Gahu, Anyako Atsia, and Kinka are performed by villagers to show-off their versatile talents.

For Africans, movement is a great way of communicating with others. Because of this, the dances often utilize symbolic mime, gestures, masks, props, visual devices, and body painting. Most of the basic movements of African dances emphasize the use of torso, upper body, and feet. There are also complex dances that use intricate action and various body parts. Team dances are common but there are also times when the dance involves 2-4 individuals taking turns on the dancing ring. There are also different formations used by the dancers like columns, serpentine, circular, and linear.

Ije Uma is the voice behind http://www.africanweddingtraditions.com/african-dances.html A lover of weddings and all things matrimonial. She specializes in guiding couples in the planning and execution of exquisite theme weddings. Her expertise is in weddings that celebrate a couple's heritage.

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Famous Pirate Shipwreck: The Whydah Galley

The Whydah Galley ship first travelled from London in 1715, it had three masts, was 31 metres tall and could reach 13 knots. It was named after a West African barter town, Ouidah. The ship is best known as Whydah and was built for transport and trading. The vessel was used in the Atlantic slave trade where goods were transported from England and exchanged for West African slaves. These slaves were taken to the Caribbean on the ship and exchanged for prestigious items such as sugar, indigo metals and medicinal ingredients.

In 1717 the Whydah was attacked by pirates associated with Samuel Bellamy - known as Black Sam. At the time of attack the ship was under the authority of Captain Lawrence Prince. After a three day chase and a haphazard exchange of canon fire Prince gave up his ship. The Whydah was then used by Bellamy as a flagship with some existing crew members becoming pirates. Bellamy gave another of his seized ships to Prince as a gesture of goodwill since Prince surrendered with no fight and held a strong pirate reputation.

After this, Bellamy sailed to the Carolinas and the eastern coastline of the American colonies where his pirate gang looted and captured more ships. The ships whereabouts during its last weeks are not proven but it is suggested he intended to head to Cape Cod to visit his mistress; but on April 26 1717 the Whydah came head to head with a bad storm.

By morning the ship was ripped to pieces and numerous corpses of the unfortunate pirates were washed up on the shoreline. As a result dozens of Cape Cod's evil wreckers came to steal any valuables. A local cartographer and salvage, Cyprian Southack, was asked by the governor to retrieve money, treasure and bullion taken from the ship. When Southack reached the shipwreck on may 3 he found the ships remnants spread across the shoreline. He recounts burying 102 of the 144 Whydah ship crew and captives.

Surviving members of the Whydah crew revealed later that the ship carried a substantial amount of gold. This included four and a half tons of gold, gold dust, jewellery and silver. Little of this said gold was recovered by Southack.

The shipwreck was found again in 1984 by Barry Clifford and since more than 100,000 single pieces have been recovered. Some artefacts are exhibited at Exhibition Whydah Sea-Lab and learning Centre in Massachusetts.

Why not look for your own hidden treasure and sell your gold? There are lots of gold buyers who accept a range of scrap gold items that make selling gold easier than ever.

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Native American Lances Throughout History

The Native American lance was a weapon used both against other men and against animals during hunting events. Warfare played an important role in Native American life, and the lance was the weapon of choice for this activity. Originally, lances consisted of a length of sturdy wood with a tip of obsidian, flint, or copper. Later, stronger iron or steel tips were used. Besides being used as a weapon of war, Native American lances were also used for hunting. A well thrown lance could bring down a buffalo, deer, or antelope with no trouble.

The tradition is still carried on by Indian artisans, even though lances are no longer used for purposes of raids or warfare. Reflected in the construction of each lance, is the affinity of the Native American to nature. A tip of flint or iron is carefully attached to a length of strong, straight wood. The shaft of the lance is often wrapped with leather in order to provide more strength. Items that may be used for adorning the lance could be such things as feathers, calico, bits of fur, or important totemic pieces.

We are able to imagine a group of Indian hunters, mounted upon their horses, galloping in hot pursuit of a small herd of buffalo. The distance is quickly closed between the hunters and the prey. The very long hunting lance, sixteen feet long or more is ready. The needs of the tribe are met once again, as the lance is thrust into the buffalo's body. The hunting lance was normally about twice as long as a lance which was used for warfare. The war lance could either be thrown at an enemy or used in closer combat. The enemy could be kept at bay, fearing the mighty lance.

The proud culture of the Native American is reflected in lances made to this day. Centuries worth of knowledge has taught the hands of the artist how to properly craft a unique lance. The wood is chosen with care and the entire lance is constructed with tradition and quality in mind. A Native American lance can serve as a centerpiece for a collection of Indian artifacts. The size of the lance makes it a weapon that is to be taken seriously. There are a variety of styles of lances from which to choose, in order to provide a focal point for your living room wall. To the home decorated in a western, southwest or rustic theme, a Native American lance above the fireplace will add the perfect finishing touch.

Author Craig Chambers offers more about Native American Lances on his website. You can also get his monthly newsletter, online discounts and download his popular free ebook from http://www.missiondelrey.com/.

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Modern Voodoo Dolls: How They Differ From The Traditional Dolls

Voodoo dolls have significant places in the cultural imagination of our ancestors, as well as ours. In the past, practitioners used the old technique, which is actually still familiar with us and some still follow their traditions in Voodoo doll-making. However, as time passed, people changed, and their imaginations became wider. They have incorporated a touch of modernism to the old tradition of making Voodoo dolls. These dolls are not necessarily involved in black magic, or any negative energy; in fact some are mostly made for fun and camaraderie with friends.

If you are interested in learning a sample modern voodoo doll, then I am here to help. The first thing you should do is to gather your materials. You will need a full body-shot of the intended recipient, a printer transfer paper, white fabric, thread and needle, and your symbol pins with heads in the following colors: red, blue, green, purple, yellow, black, white, pink. In one of my lessons, I have discussed the meanings of these colors, but for those who are reading this the first time, let me explain what is the significance of each color.

It is important to know that Voodoo practitioners use dolls mainly for negative things like hurting people or forcing romance. If you harm your boss out of malevolence, karma dictates that the consequences for you will be worse. There are nine pins, as I have mentioned, each one with a different symbol: Red stands for death or bad health, blue for love, green for money or tranquility, purple for spirituality, yellow for success, black for repelling negative energy, white for healing, and pink for love and affection.

Now let's go on to the steps. First of all, you have to clearly print the photo of your subject as large as possible on a photo transfer paper. There will be instructions coming with the photo transfer paper for transferring the image into ironed white fabric. Follow that. From that fabric, cut out your recipient's body shape for the front and back. Do not forget to leave a seam. Once you are done cutting, it is time to sew. Leave a hole near the center to give way for stuffing. Cut also small holes at armpits, fingers and crotch to serve the same purpose. For stuffing, you may use yarn, cotton or any stuffing material you desire. Once your doll is stuffed, you may now turn the doll inside out but do it in a careful manner. If you are having a hard time pushing it with your fingers, then you may use any stick or pencil. If you are already satisfied with how your doll looks, you may now sew the stuffing hole closed.

Remember also that if there's any text or graphics on the picture (such as on the person's shirt), you have to reverse the image horizontally before you print. As a result, it shows up normally later when it's on the doll. An another option would be to cut out a heart from red fabric to cover that section

People will have different tastes in their Voodoo doll styles. Most modern dolls are immensely decorated with buttons, and some are greatly dressed up. Whatever your style is, the only reminder is that you know what these dolls' significance are, and most importantly, you should make them with a clear conscience. Karma, as they say, is just around the corner. It is thus better to make a Voodoo doll when you are motivated by good-will rather than revenge.

If you want to learn more on how to make voodoo dolls I advice you to visit the voodoo dolls site.

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Don't Fence Me In

WONDER WHAT'S ON THE OTHER SIDE?

Ever had the experience of where you realize that something you that used to make you feel good...an outfit, a place or even a person...don't seem to fit right or feel as good as they once did? What happened to it while I wasn't looking?

I have been having that experience lately.

When this happens, I usually try to deny it or try to make it work by putting in lots of effort to recapture what I am losing. I will make it work, I say...which of course is just asking for more frustration but then, I'm a slow learner.

Often I felt naked & vulnerable as it feels like things that have changed things are the things make me feel secure. I resent  that I didn't have a choice that my "blankness " are going w away.

With lots of resistance...

It started to happen last fall when I had some health challenges and was advised to slow down some and not work so hard. I knew it was good advice and although difficult to put into practice, I liked the idea. And thought it would be great to have more time for myself.

So with some (lots) of resistance, I began to let go of some projects and obligations.

When winter came, I enjoyed some hibernating but still kept my long list of "to dos". The quiet voiced kept asking me, " Who would you be without all the doing?" It was scary to think of that.

But by spring, I began to get restless and felt "fenced in" by all the "musts & shoulds" I had built around me.

With reluctance, it began to occur to me all the "duties " gave me some identity as well as kept me very busy with no time to look around.

The "safe places " no longer fit or felt as good.

And while that was very good for a long time, I could also see that it also kept me in one place. My protection "fences" had, in some ways, became barriers. The "safe places " no longer fit or felt as good.

I began to see that I needed to slow down so I could pay attention at first. But now I needed to clear some room to grow.... I needed more wide-open spaces and fewer fences.

If every day is filled, it leaves little room for creating & exploring.

What would my life be like if I could let go a little and open space for new and old dreams to appear? And if I could allow myself to feel unsure and naked a bit, maybe I could take down some of my "fear fence"...and I might have a great new view!

So now as I take baby steps in exploring some new areas, I like playing the old cowboy song, " Don't Fence Me In " and the Dixie Chicks wonderful song celebrating "Wide Open Spaces".

They remind me that it is only in outgrowing our fences, that we are truly free

Jeannie Fennel, Ph.D. "Transitions Specialist" http://lifeworksonline.net/

"If Your Life or Work needs a "Re-do", I'm the one to come to." I offer a FREE 30 minute phone laser consutation to get you going on the life you deserve. Contact me at my website....Your best life is waiting,,what are you waiting for? If your life is not working as well as you want, we can give you the tools, resources, and motivation to create a life & work that works...professionally and personally.

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My Grandfather, John Jones and the Pullman Sleeping Car Porters

My Grandfather, John Jones was born in Gonzales, Texas in September of 1888. He grew up in this small town and attended the local grade school there. At the age of sixteen and after taking a young girl, Minnie Weathers for his wife, he moved to the then Cattle Empire of Fort Worth, Texas.

For over forty years my grandfather's job was that of being a member of a dapper group of distinguished black gentlemen know as the Pullman Sleeping Car Porters or simply the Pullman Porters. They were named after George Pullman of the Pullman Palace Train Car Company, the inventor of the Pullman Sleeping Car which was designed for luxurious long distance train travel.

As a Pullman Porter, my grandfather traveled from his home in Fort Worth on many different train routes across the United States for the Texas and Pacific Railroad during the heyday of train travel from 1922 until 1962 when he retired.

When I, his grandson born in Fort Worth, moved to Kansas City, Missouri in 1977, he recounted to me many stories about his train travel to Kansas City. He told of arriving at the nation's second largest train station, Union Station downtown (Grand Central Station in New York, being the first) and seeing all of the advertising signboards on a hill across from the station (where now sits the Westin Crown Center Hotel) and then staying overnight at the Streets Hotel for Blacks located in what is now known as the 18th & Vine Historic Jazz District (a National District of Historic Places in the US).

My Grandparents were happily married for 65 years. They raised seven children all of them college educated from the salary he received and the tips he earned from the many traveling passengers he served. My Grandmother passed away in 1978 while my Grandfather lived to be 99 years old and died on Thursday, June 9, 1988 only a few months before turning 100 years old.

The Pullman Porters and their Rich American History: George Pullman of the Pullman Palace Train Car Company established in 1862, made train cars and developed the Pullman luxury sleeping car which was used on trains for long and overnight travel. These train cars, first introduced to the railroad in 1867 had carpet, draperies, upholstered chairs, libraries and card tables in addition to private sleeping rooms with beds and bathrooms for long train travel.

Mr. Pullman had the idea to hire a group of very distinguished, good looking, well dressed African American men to serve as Pullman Porters to assist the train travelers with whatever needs they might have while onboard. This proved to be great work for the Porters and was considered a very prestigious job on what Mr. Pullman called a "Hotel on Wheels".

During the 1920's, Mr. Pullman had over 9,800 Pullman Train Cars and he employed over 12,000 African American Porters. He was the largest single employer of Blacks in the country at that time.

The daily work for a Pullman Porter was long and hard but offered good pay during the time and also offered the porters a chance to see the country. During the early years they would work 400 hours per month and receive 35 cents per hour or about $810.00 per year plus the tips they would make. This was good money and enabled them to take good care of their families and to send their kids to college. Their prestigious jobs also helped to define the Black Middle Class of that time.

The Pullman Porters were basically servants and had to endure all types of demeaning behavior from white travelers. There were a lot of times when they were not called by their names but rather referred to as "George" after George Pullman or simply "boy" which they all hated.

Their daily work included shinning shoes, making beds, providing room service, helping with luggage or just about anything the traveling passenger would want or need. The better the service the better the tips, they would hopefully receive. Sometimes a quarter and sometimes even a rare dollar if they provided very good service. In addition, the Pullman Company work policy was harsh and allowed the porters to sleep only four hours each night and they had to pay for their uniforms, logging and food.

On August 25, 1925 the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters was founded by a black businessman, A. Philip Randolph. It was the country's first all-black labor union and helped pave the way for better employment benefits for the porters.

On August 25, 1937 the Pullman Company signed a work agreement with the Pullman Porters which became the first ever labor agreement between black workers and a major american company. The result of the agreement included such benefits as reducing their work hours from 400 a month to 250 and raising their salary from $67.50 per month to a minimum of $89.50 per month.

The Pullman Porters were very well respected members of their communities and were credited with contributing to the development of the Black Middle Class in America much like Black Doctors, Lawyers and Educators of the time.

In 1968, the Pullman Company ended its operation of their sleeping cars and several railroad companies took over the Pullman Car function.The Porters were transferred to such companies as the Union Pacific Railroad and later Amtrak.

In conclusion, if you ever have a chance to ride the Amtrak train today and you notice a nice Black Man taking care of your every need, tip him well and remember the proud history of the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters and in particular, remember my grandfather, Pullman Porter John Jones not "George" or "Boy".

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Bellerophon and Chimera (Greek Mythological Creature)

The Chimera (or sometimes spelled as Chimaera) was a monstrous beast that can breath fire in Greek mythology. There have been many descriptions of how the creature looks but in most descriptions it is part goat, lion and snake (sometimes even dragon). The Chimera is the youngest daughter of Echidna and Typhon. Chimera is female and is said to be the last child the two had together. Its siblings include other famous Greek Monsters such as the Cerberus, the Sphinx and Ladon.

Merely seeing the Chimera was a bad omen. This Greek monster appeared regularly before disasters such as violent storms, volcanic eruptions and shipwrecks.

The King Iobates had been looking for a brave warrior to slay the extremely dangerous Chimera who had been ravaging the countryside of Lycia in Anatolia. Bellerophon arrived in the kingdom bringing letters from Proetus (the King's son-in-law) recommending him as an unconquarable hero, but also requesting secretly that he be put to death. This is because Proetus was jealous of him, suspecting that his wife had fallen in love with the young hero. Iobates sent him to slay the Chimera.

Before proceeding to the combat, Polyidus advised Bellerophon to procure if possible the horse Pegasus for the conflict. He then directed Bellerophon to pass the night in the temple of Minerva. Bellerophon was given a golden bridle by Minerva, he was also told where he can meet the Pegasus. At the sight of the bridle, the powerful winged steed came willingly and suffered himself to be taken. He rode on the back of the white beautiful horse and flied to find Chimera.

Flying above the monster, Bellerophon rained down arrows on the Chimera but with little effect, the Chimera was too strong and powerful, her breath was so hot that it can melted the hero's arrowsheads. Knowing this, Bellerophon smartly attached a lump of lead to the point of the spear and then thrust it between the beast's jaws. The fiery breath of the monster melted the lead which trickled down its throat and suffocate it until the Chimera finally died.

In science, the word chimera means the combination of cells (mixing) from two different species whereas the word hybrid usually means something that you create by mixing the egg with the sperm of a different species. There are laws in place to prevent the creation of monster-human. The word chimera refers not only to composite animals but also to any monstrous, imaginary or impossible creature.

In the West, dragons are regarded as bad and evil creature but dragon in Chinese culture is regarded differently. They are considered lucky and sacred animals. Find out also more interesting information about dragon and Chinese lion dance.

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Legend of the Holy Grail

The legend of the Holy Grail represents the symbol of life.

The Holy Grail is identified as a sacred vessel out of which Jesus drank the Last Super; used in the final meal with his disciples, the legendary sacred object has captured our imagination down through the centuries. And the intrigue continues to be more than an illusion of archaeological romance. The Grail is hidden in guise of many stirring accounts; some stories are just mythical engrossing wiles, on a journey of vengeance from Jerusalem to England, depicting battles with the old adversary Satan. The stories are truly fascinating, galvanize with symbols of life to engage our imagination in the metaphor of spiritual journey.

The Holy Grail is describe in Christian traditions and early literature as a legendary object and some commentators have made mention that the object itself is a plate, but most have said it is a cup of some description. While the search for the mysterious existence of the Holy Grail continues, the quest has not always been for the finding of a physical object, because for some pursuers, the Holy Grail represents something more than the treasures of gold, silver or brass; it becomes an important union of fellowship with God. The state of grace with God is to be free from the burden of sin and to have peace abiding within, when the guilt and penalty of death has gone then the heart becomes justified by faith.

What is the significance of the Holy Grail?

It brings together a number of obsessions in mind, first the ingredient is connected with Christ, at his Last Supper meal, and therefore, the nobility of such defining moments lend credence to the belief that the Holy Grail possesses superior spiritual powers, perhaps similar to those associated with the Ark of the Covenant, lost from sight in the Old Testament. As we look at the Holy Grail, let us delve back into history for a time where curiosity has driven our imagination to uncloak something out of this mystery, where numerous attempts have been made to popularize the hazy shroud of historical artifacts. Film directors go to great length to present a compelling picture of the puzzle, DA Vinci Code, looks at the mystery of the Holy Grail. The portrayal emphasized the hidden object of a cup, which then can be looked at in the story taken up in the account of Joseph of Arimathea, who is alleged to have caught the blood of Jesus as he hung dying on the cruel Roman cross. Joseph of Arimathea is no stranger to bible scholars, because it was he who had donated his own tomb for Jesus burial.

While this may not be the view of everyone, it certainly is the most consistent line of thinking, even for those who are of none Christian concept. The fascinating subject of the Grail emerges with consummate romance, and takes us through the labyrinth of time, with different cultures, promising the fulfillment of a lifetime quest. The power of the Grail may be indiscernible to us, greater than all the concepts we imagine, yet so infinite; that no other powers on earth can compare.

This spiritual powers must be awakened by our own purity and good intent, then we will not be drawn to the negative conclusions that surrounds this precarious object of interest, by invoking rites of magic or other spiritual activity that are conceived in secret.

So much for the importance of the Holy Grail in our lives, the obsession may be the greatest need for association, by learning the truth about God, we can study the bible with great intensity; but history demands that time and tales rightly discern the times, for stories that plays a nursery part in people's lives. We then notice the importance of the Grail and the stir it caused when first the eye of the world was called upon to voice their opinion, the subject stream rises to the top of the fountain and remains supreme.

The legend is associated with profound ecstasy, fusing elements of mythology and Celtic lore, of horn made drinking goblet, which could restore life, and produce magic for hope, such were the stories, and other accounts relating to tales of medieval England in the Middle Ages, a period from about A.D. 500 to 1500. This period is sometimes called the dark ages.

During this period of time, King Arthur's knights of the round table was connected with the account of Holy Grail, this story alleged, that the grail was hidden in one of the most horrible part of England, whereupon only the purest knight would be worthy enough to perceive and understand the path that lays between life and death. so the knight would roam the country in search of it, this became their noblest quest, and it is believe that only Sir Galahad was the virtuous hero, with the privilege of having envision the rhapsody of the over powering revelation.

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Does Humanity Deserve All That Science Has to Offer - Does Science Deserve Our Humanity?

The other day, I was listening to a video. It was a BBC special discussing how Einstein wrote that famous letter to FDR, as he was gravely concerned about the Germans producing a nuclear bomb. It was from that letter and the subsequent meeting that the Manhattan Project was formed. Later, Albert Einstein in his later years felt that that was the biggest mistake of his life, writing that letter. Because now the genie was out of the bottle and mankind possessed a horrible weapon.

Einstein lived long enough to witness the Cold War, and some of the nuclear proliferation, and he wasn't alone in his concerns, as you will recall Oppenheimer are was also horrified at what they had done in the name of science, and he spent the rest of his life trying to get humanity worldwide to ban the use of nuclear weapons. Now then, after watching that show it occurred to me to ask myself a question;

"Does Humanity Deserve all that science has to offer?"

In some regards it seems that it doesn't. In other words, perhaps humankind is not responsible enough to have the knowledge of what our most brilliant "Human +" scientists are able to offer. Yes, that is a sad philosophical conundrum. On one hand we need to technologies for more efficient energy, more efficient transportation, and positive things like space exploration. Unfortunately each time science makes a major breakthrough, it's more than often used for evil, by some rouge regime on the planet.

And it's not that nations shouldn't have a defense system to protect themselves from the other humans, the problem is that none of these humans appear to be as ethical, sincere, or careful with their political negotiations as they'd have you believe. After all, they are still just humans. Should we expect more? Of course, those scientists, who are used to build destructive of weapons, or are evil thinkers themselves, well, for that I have another question;

"Does science deserve our humanity?"

Now some could argue that there is no such thing as humanity, because a species which is busy killing itself, and cheating would be void of humanity, therefore there is no such thing, or the definition is quite the opposite. And even though those human scientists which we could call "human plus" - they are nevertheless still human, with the same desires, flawed personalities, and needs as all the rest. What I'd like you to do is consider all this from a philosophical perspective - I'm asking you to think about it.

Lance Winslow is the Founder of the Online Think Tank, a diverse group of achievers, experts, innovators, entrepreneurs, thinkers, futurists, academics, dreamers, leaders, and general all around brilliant minds. Lance Winslow hopes you've enjoyed today's discussion and topic. http://www.worldthinktank.net/ - Have an important subject to discuss, contact Lance Winslow.

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Germans, Slavs and Steppe Ponies

Those pesky ponies from the Eurasian steppes have a lot to answer for. They're only small, but on their backs have sat warlike horsemen who have swept in from the grasslands of central Asia to terrorize the poor old farmers of Europe (and of China, for that matter - but more on that another day).

The Huns were one of the most famous of these nomadic peoples to have spread panic far and wide, and they were followed by Avars, Bulgars, Magyars and a whole host of less well-known hordes. The last, and probably most destructive, were the Mongols.

Avars, Slavs and Germans

The Avars are the resident culprits of Central Europe in AD 750. They came near to destroying the Byzantine empire, and the disruption they caused within Central Europe was an important ingredient in a more gradual, but profoundly important, movement of peoples that had happened between AD 500 and AD 750. This was the expansion of the Slavs into great swathes of territory to the west and south of their original homeland.

The Slavs seem to have accomplished much of this expansion by harnessing themselves to the expansing power of the steppe nomads. It was the nomads who did much of the fighting, but it was the Slavs who actually settled the newly-conquered lands. This actually makes sense - the horsemen were few in number (in most cases, no more than a hundred thousand, counting women, children and camp followers), and were herders rather than farmers by upbringing. The Slavs, on the other hand, must have numbered several millions, and were as skilled as any farmers of the time.

In the west, the Slavs were greatly assisted by the fact that hundreds of thousands of Germans had poured into the old provinces of the western Roman Empire. There was land to spare. To the south, however, the Avar war machine was of decisive importance.

Enduring Changes

In the long-run, of course, it was the Slavic expansion which really counted. The nomads were too few to make a big impression on the population, and they tended to dissipate their power through repeated bouts of in-fighting. The Slavs, however, stayed put for centuries in the newly-settled lands. They permanently altered the ethnic make-up of much of central, eastern and southern Europe, and the struggles which they put up to later German encroachments on these territories had a deep impact on all of European history, right into the twentieth century. But more of that later.

So, those little ponies from central Asia have a caused quite a few changes, one way or another.

Timemaps has one aim:

To "communicate history in a truly engaging way".

To do this, we use a combination of timelines, maps, and encyclopedia entries merged together to create both authoritative content and an enjoyable user experience. The result is a unique interactive guide through history, stopping at each and every civilization, empire and country along the way.

http://www.timemaps.com/
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History of Ancient Roman Glass

The term "Roman glass" is a very broad, general term, and refers to a specific age under Roman rule as opposed to a specific area. The Roman Empire was so vast that there were many different styles coexisting within its realm, even though a unifying "Roman" theme can be recognized throughout the pieces.

In the 1st century BC, glassblowing was invented in Syria. In the same period, the Roman Empire was founded, and through its conquests and trade it subsequently spread a unique culture.

Alexandria and Syria exported their glassware to Rome, from which the works were then brought to Roman colonies in Europe. Thus, Rome was critical in spreading the art of glassmaking to Europe.

In 1st century AD, large scale glass manufacturing occurred in Syria, Palestine, and Alexandria. One Syrian glassmaker called Ennion even left his name on his glassware. Generally, Syrian glassmakers often produced utilitarian glassware, while Alexandrian glassmakers focused on luxury objects. Many also moved to Italy and other Roman colonies, and glass houses spread quickly through Europe. Soon, Cologne would be a glassmaking center as important as Alexandria. The styles of these different locations were very similar to each other.

Like this, the Roman period started an unprecedented flourishing in the glass industry, during which even the common people began to have access to glassware. Some household glass types that were commonly used were janus flasks, which displayed the head of persons on a flask, and victory cups, with laurels and inscriptions for decoration. Mirrors and windows were also produced using glass.
Artistic glass also continued to be produced. For example, cage cups, which were bowls or cups with rounded sides, were created. These cups had pierced decorations attached by struts. This decoration was not fused to the surface; instead, the entire object was created out of a solid block of glass by under-cutting. Because the process is so complex, surviving pieces are very rare and it is difficult to reproduce even today.

After the fall of the Roman Empire in the 5th century, the glass industry also suffered a dramatic decline. With arts and crafts, there is a general tendency to follow the up and downs of politics. This tendency is even more marked in more expensive types of art. Thus, while utilitarian glassware still produced, artistic glassware naturally lacked demand as political and economic circumstances were unstable and people could not afford to buy luxury.

Interested in beautiful yet practical glassware? Find out more about exquisite hand blown glass vases, bowls, paperweights.

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Clodius Albinus - The Emperor

Clodius Albinus was born in Africa rather aristocratic family. His father decided to invite him to Albino pale as he was when he was born. One might think that his father had been abusive, but the white was a prestigious Roman society. Politicians in their togas bleached white as possible, when you ran for office. So maybe it was a compliment. Yet, strange name, I think.

He joined the army in early life. Marcus Aurelius (emperor of the time) hired him to help him a riot. Marcus said that without the legions of Bithynia Clodius would have joined the insurgency and have had problems.

Rebellions and revolutions in these days were mostly on the number of legions you can get on your side. Sometimes a well done speech could tip the balance in that would become the next emperor or remain on the throne.

Now, here's a curious chapter in the life of Clodius. Coldius has received an order in Britain by the Emperor Commodus then. Now, when Commodus Commodus killed Clodius began to denounce their troops. He said the chest had been a tyrant (probably true - most of the emperors were tyrants) also said the Senate should have more power. In fact, if Dresser had not died, had been just a rumor. Clodius was so respected at the moment, however, came almost with impunity. Although the emperor is furious.

Clodius is the time when the Emperor Pertinax is assassinated. Pertinax was unpopular with the Praetorian Guard (the emperor's bodyguard.) Because he had not paid them enough. Now of all people to be unpopular with guys who are supposed to protect you. In fact, they have nothing but. They murdered the emperor Pertinax, because they hated so much.

This was not the best thing to do, but something really stupid what he did come. Because we do not have a replacement lined up to Pertinax, who just decided to give the position of the emperor who wanted to pay more. Actually auction.

Didio Juliano was the man who won the auction. But it would be so easy for him. In the Roman provinces were powerful men who have vast armies under his command. Frankly, the way it all went down was very civilized, even by his standards. They were not happy.

While challengers to the throne was Pescennius Niger in Syria, Septimius Severus in Illyricum and Pannonia and our hero Clodius Albinus in Britain and Gaul.

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Military Swords to Handguns - An Evolution on the Battlefield

In addition to Sharon's and my novels, I write about a great many things. Frequently, I write about swords and about handguns. In the military context, both swords and handguns have utility beyond mere use as a weapon. They have been and still are symbols of leadership. In battle, the officer leading his unit into the fray frequently hasn't the luxury of carrying a rifle with fixed bayonet. Often, he needs to have a hand free, either for hand and arm signals, or, in some cases in the past, prepping a whistle for command signals.

During the "modern" era of United States horse-mounted cavalry, the handgun would be worn on the right side of the belt, holstered butt forward. This carry method enabled the officer or enlisted men so equipped to "crossdraw" his handgun, with the left hand, or perform a twist or "cavalry" draw, with his right hand. More often, the cavalry draw was what was used. But, when the saber was to be employed, it was drawn from the left side with the right hand and the left hand was used to draw the pistol.

As the sword began to vanish from the battlefield as an actual weapon, it was still employed in the leadership function. During the American Civil War of the 1860s, equipment availability permitting, a common Confederate cavalry tactic was to ride into saber range with Union forces and, instead of fighting steel to steel, merely draw and discharge as many handguns as were available at saber - read that as "point blank" - range.

As the sword faded from the battlefield, quality faded from the sword. Today, we are fortunate enough to live during what can well be described as a "renaissance of the blade." Large, well-respected firms and individual makers are offering swords of every description that are, historical swords notwithstanding, to be ranked solidly among the best swords ever made. With modern steels and computer controlled heat treating, the conscientious maker, be it large or small, can create a sword any of the greatest swordsmen of history would have been proud to carry into battle, to lead the attack and shout, "Follow me, men!"

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Norse Goddess Freya - Forerunner of Women's Liberation

"The day will come when men recognize women as his peer, not only at the fireside but in the councils of the nation... Then and not until then, will there be the perfect comradeship, the ideal union between the sexes that shall result in the highest development of the race." - Susan B. Anthony

No goddess annoyed Christian officials more than the Norse Goddess Freya. As a result, ironically, Freya survives more vividly than any other female goddess. The constant condemnation that the Christian Church gave her kept her from fading into obscurity.

Freya was described as a "Witch goddess" by a Christian at the Althing (Parliament) of Iceland. This insult initiated the final round of debate over the country's Christianization.

After this Freya was denounced as a "Queen of Witches." Women who venerated her were automatically branded as "witches. " And of course Freya's rites did encourage magical practices, mediumship, shamanism and female autonomy, with Freya as the role model. Such behavior this new regime considered hateful and sinful.

Freya was not some obscure goddess but was beloved and worshiped over a vast European territory including Scandinavia, Iceland, Greenland, the Germanic lands, Holland and Anglo-Saxon Britain.

Freya's last surviving temple, in Magdeburg, Germany, was destroyed by edict of the Emperor Charlemagne. Devotees of Freya refused to surrender their faith. Up until 1668 the worship of "Frau Venus" was still prevalent among the Saxons of Magdeburg.

But it was at this time Freya was banished to the mountain peaks of Norway, Sweden and Germany to Dance with her devotees in the The Brocken, the highest peak in the Harz Mountains of central Germany. Where she presides over annual Mid-Summer and Walpurgis Festivals. To this day Freya remains among the most beloved of deities among modern Neo-Pagens.

I would say The Goddess Freya was the synthesis of the "Liberated" woman.

Freya Bless
Lory

Lory Woortman is a writer, water color artist and garden designer. Lory is interested in the study of quantum physics, Norse Myths and Religion. She lives in a small country town in North East Pennsylvania with her writer husband, Ellis and her little dog Dixie. Lory has a blog and written many articles that are "Free," pertaining to Norse Mythology, Shamanism, Runes and Quantum Physics.

http://mistressofenchantment.blogspot.com/

http://www.olevikingshop.builderspot.com/

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Antique Lamps - The Dragon and the Pearl

Mankind has always developed mythologies in an effort to explain and understand his place in the world. This has led to the development of abstract thoughts and ideas that require symbols to bring the ideas into form. The most ancient of these mythological symbols is the Chinese dragon.

Chinese philosophical thought is the oldest in the world, with a recorded history covering thousands of years. China has had three principal philosophic influences, Confucianism, Taoist and Buddhist. All three of these thought systems influenced Chinese philosophical thought, with Confucianism being the major contributor.

Confucius was born in 551 BC and his teachings developed into the guiding principals for Chinese imperial government and society for the following 2500 years. Confucianism as government policy was only replaced in 1905.

All of these important philosophies taught their content and principals through the use of symbols. Confucianism, Taoism and Buddhism all used the language of symbol to convey their teaching with a very primary and most ancient symbol being the dragon.

Recent Chinese archeological finds have revealed dragon symbols dating back for about six thousand years; these include ancient philosophic texts and shamanistic objects engraved with primitive dragon symbols.

It is difficult to establish exactly where the dragon symbol originated, but the most likely source can be found in an ancient legend, (one of those cliched legends, lost in the mists of time!) The legend refers to a primitive Chinese society of six to seven thousand years ago and the practice of early tribal groups adopting and worshiping a particular plant or animal as a totemic guide and protector of the tribe.

One of the largest and most powerful of these tribes was located in central China on the lower reaches of the Yellow river. Its totem was the snake, known to them as the Dragon. They believed that the dragon was responsible for leading them to victory in intertribal wars. When the tribe was victorious in battle they included the conquered tribes totem to their snake / dragon totem, believing that their totem was strengthened by the addition. For example, the conquest of a tribe with the deer as their totem would result as deer's antlers being added to the head of the snake. In this way the well known image of the dragon came into being.

Chinese mythology describes the dragon as the creature of Nine Resemblances.

The head of a camel, the antlers of a deer, the eyes of a hare, the ears of a bull, neck of a snake, belly of a clam, scales of a carp, claws of an eagle and with the paws of a tiger.

Chinese art is highly symbolic and can be read and understood by its use of symbol. The dragon is often shown with a large white pearl in its jaws, or, held in its claws. Early traditional Chinese mythology believed that the dragon chases the sun and this is often depicted in Chinese art with the dragon in pursuit of a flaming red ball.

But with the arrival of Buddhist influence, about 67 AD, the red ball of the sun, evolved into a white pearl, sometimes shown as a flaming pearl and known as the night shining pearl. Buddhist symbolism teaches that the night symbolises the darkness of ignorance and the shining pearl, the teaching of the Buddha, the Dharma, and the light of truth, or, as understood in the West, as the pearl of great price.

There has been and, no doubt there will continue to be, many discussions, papers and theories relating to the long Chinese tradition of depicting the dragon with the pearl, many of these erudite theories can be lengthy and learned, but the fact remains, nobody really knows the origin of the pearl. It is, however, accepted that the dragon and his relationship to the pearl, now holds a lost, as yet undiscovered philosophic and abstract meaning behind it.

In Western art and mythology, the dragon is seen as a malevolent creature, violent and breathing fire, but not in Chinese art and mythology. The Dragon is associated with wisdom-- conferring great blessings on those they favoured. Dragons are especially associated with water, rivers, rain and the seasons.

The dragon was believed to ascend into the sky in the spring to make rain for the crops and returned to his underwater palace in the autumn. As a farming people, the Chinese peasants prayed to the dragon for good harvests, with a special spring festival, with fireworks and gongs to awaken him from slumber.

The dragon was revered and honoured and so strongly associated with the weather, that he was known as the rain master. His eyes flashed lightning, the beating of his wings caused the wind and his breath, the rain.

The dragon was the supreme symbol of power and authority and was the personal symbol of the Emperor, the Yellow Dragon and like the sun, elusive, august and solitary. The Emperor ruled with the mandate of Heaven and was believed to have dragon's blood in his veins; all of his personal possessions were given the prefix of dragon: dragon throne, dragon gown, dragon bed etc.

In traditional Chinese art the dragon holds a most prominent place. Being one of the four supernatural creatures, (Ssu Ling). The dragon is often portrayed amidst clouds in pursuit of the Sacred Pearl, the symbol of enlightenment, or, seen as the Flaming Pearl, a circular object aflame, which may have originally been a symbol for the sun.

Chinese art is highly symbolic and can be read via its symbol rich content. The dragon is seen as the symbol of power and authority. The dragon was the symbol of the Emperor of China, who ruled by the Mandate of Heaven and was believed to have descended from the dragon.

In modern China, the mythology of the dragon is still greatly revered and deeply ingrained in Chinese culture, as example, with the festival of New Years dragon dance and the dragon boat festivals held throughout Asia. China produces vast amounts of modern porcelain and much of this production is still decorated with the dragon. Contemporary China, although seemingly far removed from an ancient, mythological past, is still universally recognized by the symbol of the dragon.

Maurice Robertson, of The Antique and Vintage Table Lamp Co. He is well known to local and international interior designers and has also supplied items of national interest to the official Sydney residence of the Australian Prime Minister.

The Antique & Vintage Table Lamp Co specialize in antique lamps with an on-line range of over 100 unique, antique and vintage lamps on view.
Lamps are shipped ready wired for the U.S, the U.K and Australia.
You are invited to visit their web site at -: http://www.antiquelampshop.com/
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Atlantis, Lemuria and Mu Continents of Mystery

Throughout history, people have tended to look back toward an exclusive age of perfection; a time when human achievements were greater, lives were happier and the world was generally a better place.

In religious terms, this often meant a time when the gods lived upon the earth. In secular terms, it has led to theories of prehistoric civilizations whose technologies exceeded, or at least equaled, that of the modern world.

Because none of these early civilizations left conclusive, visible remains, the theories concerning them have to explain their almost total disappearance. Most have done so by locating them on continents that subsequently sank beneath the oceans, never to be found again.

Personally, I feel that all things, including civilizations are cyclical. And that man has reached high degrees of science, civilization and religion many times in the past only to have them destroyed. I believe we have had many "Golden Ages" in the past and will again in the future.

Atlantis:
There are three principal lost continents of the past. Atlantis, located in the Atlantic Ocean, has attracted the widest belief. Stories about Atlantis were recorded by Plato (c428-347 BC), his Timea/Crimea. These stories have held the popular imagination ever since. Plato, a Greek philosopher, described Atlantis as an advanced civilization, which was destroyed because it over stepped it bounds and became evil.

A number of authors during the nineteenth century, wrote extensively on the subject. They featured many religious, occult (great use of "mind power" doing the work that our machines do today) and anthropological theories. Today research suggests that historical references to Atlantis may have come from a civilization based on the Mediterranean coast line.

Lemuria:
The second continent, Lemuria may have been the original Garden of Eden. Some theories say it was located in the Indian Ocean and some that it was in the Pacific. The British zoologist Philip Sclater and the German biologist E.H. Haeckel called the continent "Lemuria" after the lemur, which is found in Africa, India and Malaysia.

Life on Lemuria was generally held not to have reached the advanced civilization of Atlantis. Helena Blavatsky and Rudolf Steiner believed Atlanteans were descended from the Lemurians.

The third principal lost continent, Mu, was located in the Pacific Ocean, according to discoverer, Colonel James Churchward, it boasted a highly advanced civilization that was destroyed by natural causes.

A slightly different set of theories places such lost civilizations "inside" the Earth, which is said to be hollow, with openings at the ends.

There is the Hawaiian Huna belief, the theory of "Ancient Astronauts", by Erich von Daniken in his book "Chariots of the Gods"(1971). This theory holds that in ancient times extraterrestrial beings visited Earth, possibly mating with humans and teaching them astonishing advanced technological and esoteric knowledge.

This would explain the extraordinarily sophisticated early feats of construction and engineering - such as the Egyptian pyramids.

Although this theory is scoffed at by many, there are ancient depictions of beings who appear to be wearing space suits (for example in the Val Camonica Cave paintings in Italy). They can be seen in Europe, Africa and South America as well.

Brightest of Blessings,
Lory

Lory Woortman is a writer, water color artist and garden designer. Lory is interested in the study of quantum physics, Norse Myths and Religion. She lives in a small country town in North East Pennsylvania with her writer husband, Ellis and her little dog Dixie. Lory has a blog and written many articles that are "Free," pertaining to Norse Mythology, Shamanism, Runes and Quantum Physics.

http://mistressofenchantment.blogspot.com/

http://www.olevikingshop.builderspot.com/

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Charles Lindbergh - An American Icon

Charles Augustus Lindbergh was born on February 4th, 1902 in Detroit Michigan. His parents were Charles August Lindbergh and Evangeline Lodge Land. His father was a U.S. Congressman (R-Mn) from 1907 to 1917 and his mother a school teacher. They separated when young Charles was 4 years old in 1907. Charles spent his childhood and teenage years living in Washington D.C. to California. This is evident by the fact that he attended over dozen schools, most for less than a year till he graduated from Little Falls High School in 1918.

Having always been interested in motorized mechanics it was not surprising that he entered the University of Wisconsin in 1920 as a mechanical engineering student. Though he never flew it was at school that he became fascinated with flying. He dropped out of school in February 1922 and moved to Lincoln Nebraska to enter as a student to learn how to fly at the Nebraska Aircraft Corporation. It was 9 days after entering the school that he flew for the first time as a passenger in a 2 seat bi-plane. It was several days later that he took his first flying lesson.

It was in May 1923 that Lindbergh took his first solo flight in a World War I surplus Curtiss JN-4 biplane at Souther Field in Americus Georgia. Several weeks later he took his first cross country solo flight barnstorming across the country under the name "Daredevil Lindbergh. In October 1925 while working as an aviator instructor he was hired by the Robertson Aircraft Corporation to head up,the new Contract Air Mail Rte#2 providing service from Louisville to Chicago, a 278 mile route with stops that included Springfield and Peoria, Illinois.

On May 20th, 1925 Lindbergh made a heroic flight from Roosevelt Field just outside of New York City to He landed his plane the Spirit of St. Louis 33.5 hours later at Le Bourget airport in Paris France to become the first pilot to successfully complete a non-stop flight across the Atlantic. It was reported that 150,000 spectators were waiting for him to land in Paris that day when the crowd carried him through the field for a half hour in rejoice of his feat. This achievement made this unknown postal service flier famous throughout the world. He won the Orteig Prize, $25,000 established by Raymond Orteig, a New York hotel owner.

Aside from his $25,000 Orteig Prize Lindbergh won other accolades and metals such as the Medal of Honor, Congressional Gold Medal, Pulitzer Prize, Distinguished Flying Cross, Legion of Honour from France and Air Force Cross from Briton. This great American distinguished himself not only as an aviator but he was also successful as an author, an inventor, an explorer and as an environmentalist. Lindberg lived his final days on the Maui island of Hawaii where he died on August 26th, 1974 of lymphoma at the age of 72.

Celebrate this great American and the spirit of American that he represents. Visit Mall4Men where they feature Mens and Ladies military, Patriotic and Civilian Jewelry. Buy with confidence. Most of their products offer free shipping and all of their products come with a 100% Money Back "No Hassle" Guarantee. Quality-Value-Service you can count on.

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Persian Carpets: A Brief History

A most important part of Persian/ Iranians art and culture, Persian Carpets, has been undoubtedly one of artistic magnificence nurtured for more then 2,500 years. Iranians have achieved a degree of excellence through their centuries of creativity, unmatched imagination and talent. Persian Carpets are an integral part of an Iranian home, which is the most valued possession for Persians.

History

To know the exact history of Persian Carpets, we have to follow a path of cultural growth of one of the greatest civilizations the world has ever known. Many people in Iran have invested their whole wealth in Persian carpets, which is often referred to as an Iranian's stocks and shares. For many centuries, the Persian carpet has received international acknowledgment for its artistic splendor. In palaces, famous building, rich homes and museums throughout the world a Persian carpet is amongst the most treasured possessions. Thus, today Iran produces more carpets than all the other carpet making centers of the world put together.

The history of the carpet is divided into three main periods, i.e., Zoroastrian period, Islamic period & Modern period. All of these periods are elaborated below:

Zoroastrian period

* Unique archaeological excavation in 1949
* Pazyryk carpets were discovered among the ices of Pazyryk Valley, in Altai Mountains in Siberia
* The carpet was found in the grave of a Scythian prince
* Believed that the carpet from Pazyryk is not likely a nomadic product, but a product of the Achaemenid period.
* By the sixth century, Persian carpets of wool or silk were renowned in court circles throughout the region

Islamic period

* The carpets of Khorassan, Sistan and Bukhara, were in high demand among purchasers because of their prominent designs and motifs
* During the reigns of the Seljuq and Ilkhanate dynasties, carpet weaving was still a booming business
* Sheep were specially bred to produce fine wool for weaving carpets
* The earliest surviving of the Persian carpets is of a Safavid (1501-1736) carpet known as the Ardabil Carpet
* The carpets are woven in 1539-40 according to the dated inscriptions
* The foundation of silk and the pile of wool with a knot density of 300-350 knots per square inch
* The size of the carpets were 34? feet by 17? feet ( 10.5 meters ? 5.3 meters)
* There is much variety among classical Persian carpets of the 16th and 17th century

Modern Period

* Iran exported $517 million worth of hand woven carpets in 2002
* Iran's carpet exports amounted to US$635 million in 2005, according to the figures from the state-owned Iran Carpet Company
* In October 2007, National Iranian Carpet Center revealed that hand-woven carpets have ranked first in country's non-oil exports and hold the third position among overall exports

Design & Material Used

The making of Persians Carpets is done using traditional styles and patterns used by the ancestors of weavers or designers. This traditional way of designing is used for simple rectilinear designs. While, for elaborate curvilinear designs, the patter are carefully drawn to scale in the proper colors on graph paper. Each square on graph paper becomes a knot, which allows an accurate rendition of even the most complex design. With the change in creativity, imaginations and thoughts, little change has been observed in art of weaving. Today, computers are used in the production of scale drawings for the weavers.

The use of quality material help in weaving most impressive and eye catching range of Carpets that is widely demanded for its durability, strechability and design. Some of the material is listed below:

* Wool: kork wool, manchester wool & camel hair wool
* Cotton
* Silk

PS: To know more about it, plese click on Persian carpets

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Appearance, Magnificence And Capability Of Low Cost Swords

Getting affordable swords, like purchasing any affordable item suggests you're buying a product of low quality. The Japanese recognize top quality really well. High-end samurai swords could very well be purchased for around $25,000, but you'll be able to choose an inexpensive replica on the web for as low as a buck.

Low-cost swords might be put into use for design or artistic purposes. Accentuate the study or formal living area by using a show of replica weapons. These varieties of goods develop locations of attraction in a space and are a great conversation starter. Acquiring these kinds of items for decorating purposes is common, and potential buyers should comprehend that these sorts of weapons aren't created to manage or survive any use.

Buyers purchase ornamental pieces for themed rooms, or probably to use in an accumulation of hunting knives. You are going to see they present you with exotic, exciting and generally stunning decorations. No matter if real or phony, you will find a wide assortment of stunning items, from samurai swords to medieval swords, or with "secure" ivory etched handles, to jewel inlay-ed Middle Eastern kirpans.

Numerous individuals purchase affordable swords for several different factors. As an example, cinema and drama productions may purchase them for props. Enthusiasts who do not prefer to shell out a fortune may well favor to purchase an imitation sword in place of an original one. Additionally, very first time buyers that have either not long ago found an interest in this type of weaponry or contain a little expertise of what they may be purchasing may well purchase less expensive items. Swordplay and actual life fantasy role-play has turned out to be common amongst some young individuals, therefore supplying much more requirement for less expensive pieces.

Why should you keep away from purchasing an inexpensive sword? They're largely sold for decorating purposes. Even when the seller promises that it's a functional weapon, check out the cost and determine for your self. If the sword is sold for ten dollars, it really is cosmetic! People shouldn't purchase these weapons to train hitting many targets. Though this really is tempting, it really is not a great notion. The decorative sword can either break or you could possibly injure your self or an individual in the area.

Inexpensive swords can't be utilized for any functioning usage. Do think of the value you're obtaining for the funds used. If you're purchasing an attractive sword, so long as it looks the part then the cost only depends upon just how much you are prepared to pay. You are unable to definitely go absolutely wrong when purchasing attractive swords, except if the store promises the sword is authentic, functional or particular in some kind and requires excess amounts of funds for a thing that's created of a recycled cooking pot.

If you're for extra information on cheap swords take a moment to pay a visit to http://jasonlking.com/. You may discover a great choice of reports on different types of swords as well as quite a few seriously great deals.

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Legend of the Lady White Snake - Chinese Folklore

Legend of the White Snake is one of the Chinese four most popular folk stories. This is a touching love story about a man who fell in love with a white snake. This story has also been ranked into the first batch of China's National Intangible Cultural Heritage List. The Legend of the White Snake has been made into movies, cartoons and TV series.

Once upon a time, there were a green snake and a white snake who dreamt of becoming a goddess by doing good deeds in the Mountain Er Mei. After successfully cultivating for thousands of years in the caves of Er Mei Mountain, the snakes transformed into two beautiful young ladies - Pai Su Shen (the white snake) and Siau Ching (the green snake). Although the ladies were not human but they were benevolent and kind-hearted. They adored the colorful life of human and used to prefer playing around the West Lake of Hang Zhou.

One day, they took a rest in the pavilion somewhere at the West Lake of Hang Zhou city and they found a young handsome man (Xu Xian) standing on the Broken Bridge. Not long after that, it rained very heavily and this made the ladies worried. When they were about to go somewhere else, an umbrella appeared suddenly above their heads. They turned around and surprised to see the scholarly young handsome man who was holding the umbrella for them. This was their first meeting.

Since she was so beautiful and the man was kind and handsome, they fell in love with each other and later they got married and opened a medicine shop. Lady White wrote down the prescription while Siau Ching and Xu Xian gathered and dispensed the herbal medicine. They cured a lot of patients, those who unable to pay were given free treatment as well as the medicines. Their store soon became popular and their business became better and better.

One day, a monk called Fa Hai saw them and warned Xu Xian (the man) that his wife was actually a white snake. Hearing this, the man became furious and said "My wife is not a snake! She is a kind and generous lady who loves me so much" The monk kept explaining that coexistence of human and evil spirit is unallowable but Xu Xian did not want to listen and chose to ignore the monk.

Fa Hai insisted to believe that every demon should be eliminated. In order to save the man's soul, the monk did not have a choice but imprisoned the white snake that had taken on human form under the Leifeng Pagoda. Many years later, Pai Shu Shen's son saved his mother from the pagoda and the family was reunited at last.

What does it mean when you find a snake in your home, find out at Snake Symbol Meaning. You can also read an interesting information about Chinese horoscope snake.

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Is Ivory Carving in Vogue?

It is a common misconception that ivory comes solely from elephant tusks but there are, in fact, many different types. Ivory can be obtained for carving from the teeth or tusks of many animals including the mammoth which became extinct during the Ice Age. In Siberia alone it is believed that there are still some 10 million mammoths buried in the area so there is ample ivory to be harvested from this source and therefore no animal need die in the pursuit of Ivory Carving.

The carving of ivory dates back to prehistoric times and through the ages the many ornamental things that were produced from it became coveted, prized and valued in many countries of the world and within many civilizations. Elephant ivory was for many years the material of choice because it was so easy to work with, being soft and obtainable in large pieces. Unfortunately man's love of ivory carving almost rendered the elephant extinct and it is now an illegal practice for obvious reasons. However, there are still many antique articles available for purchase which ivory carving collectors pay highly for. Many of these items find their way very quickly into vast private collections.

Mammoth tusks are also relatively easy to work with for carving but come in different colors depending on where they were buried. The outer layers of the tusks have absorbed various minerals and components of the earth so they may be brown, a bluish green or possibly grey in color however, as the layers are worked through the interior will ultimately produce a pure ivory color. Ivory carving has been prevalent in Europe, China, India, Eastern Asia and Africa almost since time began and many religions icons were carved from it.

Particularly ornate carvings can be found that are associated with the Islam religion because ivory lends itself as a material to be used for the intricate carving of the Islamic symbols. In Egypt many weapons with ivory handles have been found in the tombs of the Pharaohs along with trinket boxes, caskets and items of jewelry exquisitely inlaid with ivory carving. In Greece, Germany, France and the Netherlands examples can be found of statues and statuettes from almost every period in history. In China beautiful chess sets were produced together with chopsticks, room screens and furniture.

Japan too found many artistic ways to demonstrate the art of ivory carving producing toggles for purses and netsuke. There are innumerable examples around the globe of the versatility of ivory for carving purposes throughout history and up to the present day. For many years in some cultures a gift of an elephant carved from ivory or an object with elephants inlaid in ivory was a popular gift for lovers based on the memory of the elephant. If someone received such a gift they would never forget who gave it to them.

Anita Satin Choudhary writes for Ivory Carving Art Gallery. Browse the gallery for unique collection of artifacts of Ivory Carving.

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