pothos.org

After speaking with my ancient history professor, he suggested that it was quite common for emperors, royalty, and other highly regarded individuals to be shown with a winged being (male or female) carrying them into the sky. It was supposed to hint at their divinity, being taken up to the gods. What makes this even more compelling is that is was very popular during the time of Alexander Severus, appearing on numerous reliefs.

This seems like a highly probable explanation, perhaps the most persuasive thus far.

Jan, I've moved your musings to the "off-topic" forum.

ATB

I should have thought of that...I did get some results from the remarks in a strange way. I learned about area code 809 which has simply amazed me. I appreciate your doing the right thing here about those musings. What a simple breastplate will elicit?!