Wednesday, May 16, 2012

Progue Influences - Madonna and Child

The Progue were greatly inspired by this painting of Madonna and Child by Jean Fouquet.
Inspiration derived from this painting:

  • Importance of femininity.
  • Milky white skin reminded me of albinism. 
  • The high hairline created a large forehead and got me thinking about the race having a dignified look by increasing the forehead size.
  • The use of a throne,
  • The opaque vivid quality of the tempera reminded me of illuminated manuscripts.

Wednesday, May 2, 2012

Inspiring the Progue - Venus Figurines

Photograph of three Venus Figurines on pedestals; from left to right Venus of Dolni, Venus of Willendorf and Venus of Lespugue
from left to right Venus of Dolni, Venus of Willendorf and Venus of Lespugue
One of the most interesting races I've begun to develop in Peregrination RPG are the Progue. Some of their elements are pretty easy to figure out and others not so much. One subtle element that influenced them is the Venus figurines. I was first introduced to these in my college Art History class. Their over sized feminine features are striking and even grotesque by today's standards.

I was filled with questions abound. Prehistoric man had fat people? What sort of status did they achieve to have little figures carved in their likeness? What role did these figurines play? Etc.

Of course one cannot ignore the irony of their name; why name them after a Goddess that never existed during the time they were created? Their name came from the assumption that they represent an ancient standard of beauty or perhaps an ancient female deity, both of which are used to justify the term "Venus." While given this name neither of these theory's can be proven accurate. Because their name is based off of an interpretation, the Venus figurines are a wonderful jumping off point for creating story and deriving one's own justification for their existence.

So when creating the Progue race, I wanted to think of a culture in which women were of great value and in charge. To me these figures represent the importance of women & their significance to continuing the circle of life; not only in childbirth, but also in their physical labor and bond to the community.

OK, your turn. In comments below I would love to read your interpretation of these figurines. What purpose do you think they served?