Pan is the son of Zeus, (or Hermes or Dionysus); his mother a nymph (or sometimes Dryope?). In fact, his parentage is so unclear that some historians consider him Pre-Olympian. Because of his effect on people his qualities appear to be more a nature spirit (or elemental). As an entity, he inspires panic, sexual arousal or in the higher form: musical ecstasy.
Syrinx was a exquisite water-nymph of Arcadia, daughter of Landon, the river-god. As she was returning from the hunt one day, Pan met her. In fear of his amorous interest the fair nymph ran away. He pursued her until she caught up with her sisters who immediately changed her into a reed. In his search for her he noticed the air blowing through the reeds produced a melancholic melody. The god, still infatuated, took a handful because he did not know which reed she became, and cut seven pieces and formed a musical instrument. He has carried her with him ever since.
Contrary to Plutarch, Pan is not dead. In Jitterbug Perfume: Tom Robbins describes the continued life of Pan and his exploits as he sailed to the New World and lived in America…. but that is another story.
In creating an Amulet of Pan, I chose his musical aspect. The Pan amulet is not a simply relief; it is a 3D sculpture from his waist up, framed in grape leaves playing his pan pipe.
An amulet to inspire a Panorama: good music, good wine and a celebration of life itself.
Amulets by Merlin's Blog 