The colorwork is based on Zeus, Hera, and the unfortunate mortal women who found themselves on the receiving end of their attention.

Myths referenced in this pattern include “Prometheus and Io”, and “The Rape of Europa”. Elements of the colorwork were adapted from filet crochet patterns from the late nineteenth century.

If you’d like to know more about the myths behind the design, Edith Hamilton’s Mythology is hanging out in most libraries. Or you could check out Myths and Legends of Greece and Rome by E.M. Berens, which is in the public domain and available in full online.