THE THreE BeTHEn

The "3 Bethen" (Three Matrons/Fates) cycle of works—comprising sun-prints (Cyanotypes), three large linen panels, and three smaller ones—is inspired by an ancient Greek wall painting of the Moirai (Fates) found at the Aigai Museum in Vergina, Greece. As Celtic figures, Wilbeth, Ambeth, and Borbeth form a divine triad representing the Earth Mother, the Moon Mother, and the Sun Mother. They are goddesses of fate and, in a Christian context, serve as "helpers in times of need" (*Nothelferinnen*).

They embody a matriarchal trinity and represent a cyclical world order, expressed through the processes of becoming, maturing, and passing away. In this sense, the three figures of fate—Wilbeth, Ambeth, and Borbeth—align with other triads of great fate goddesses, such as the Germanic Norns (Urd, Verdandi, and Skuld), the Greek Moirai (Clotho, Lachesis, and Atropos), the Roman Parcae (Nona, Decima, and Morta), as well as corresponding figures found in Slavic, Eastern European, and Southeastern European mythology.

While known in Celtic culture as Wilbeth, Ambeth, and Borbeth, these figures—under the influence of the Roman Empire and the subsequent rise of Christianity—came to be venerated as Saint Fides (Faith), Saint Spes (Hope), and Saint Caritas (Love). In a later Christian context, they appear as the three saints—Catherine, Margaret, and Barbara—or, in another variation, as the Three Wise Men: Caspar, Melchior, and Balthasar.

They are associated with the colors white, red, and black—symbolizing the young woman, the fertile woman, and the wise woman—a connection that also links them to figures such as Berchta and Frau Holle.

Frau Holle is associated with the elder tree—a plant that, throughout the seasons, reveals itself in shades of white, red, and black through its blossoms and berries. These goddess figures were crafted on antique, hand-woven linen from Bad Ischl. As spinners and guardians of the fabric of life—who also hold the power to sever the thread of existence—they are intrinsically linked to ancient craftsmanship. The materials used include pigments derived from goldenrod, known for its cleansing properties, and buckthorn berries, which offer a purifying effect. In this way, we may place our trust in the momentum of the (spinning) wheel and in the goddesses of fate; while they point the way, our own actions can shape the path—a path that, in any case, remains under their protection.