In Greek mythology, the Charites were goddesses of charm, beauty, nature and creativity. Aglaea, “Splendor” was the youngest, Euphrosyne, “Mirth,” was the middle sister and Thalia, “Good Cheer,” the eldest. To the Romans they were known as the Gratiae, the “Graces.” Homer wrote that they were in the retinue of Aphrodite, the goddess of love, pleasure and procreation. Although early depictions of the Graces occurred in marble sculptures dating from the 6th century BC and a first century fresco at Pompeii, they are more likely known by the Renaissance paintings of Botticelli, Raphael and Rubens.
In Africa, grace – the pleasure of beauty in nature – is a constant state of existence. Splendor, the youngest of the Gratiae, can be found in moments both large and small – in the turn of a head or in a long, glorious sunset.
These three impala in identical coats pause before us in a moment of easy grace. The youngest, coltish, knock-kneed, takes our breath away when she throws us a glance over her shoulder. The charm, the Charities, of fleeting beauty.
ABOUT ELEPHANTS 
Here because of Harper – and so glad to find you. A lovely piece – I simply loved the way you linked the three Graces… and the exquisite impala..
Isn’t Harper a sweetie? So generous of him. And all because we got into a back-and-forth about watermelons and zucchinis!
Hi there I popped over on Harper’s recommendation and so pleased I did. I can see why you were knocked out by the young Impala – such a look, such a precious look.
Isn’t Harper such a gentleman? I love his sense of humor. Thanks for “popping over” and your kind words. Impalas fascinate me with their huge obsidian eyes and nearly-regal movements. I immediately thought of a reversed “Three Graces” the moment I took that shot.
Cheryl, Lovely comparisons are used in this beautifully written piece — the graceful Impala is so apt.
May your eloquent pen continue dancing lightly on the pages, with Amazing Grace.
With love…GG X
Thank you so much Gillian-Rene! Had no clue you have such a lovely hyphenated first name. Hugs to you.
Thanks for the compliment, Cheryl. It’s a compromise as Mom wanted Gillian and Dad wanted René as my first name 🙂 Hugs back
Such brilliant parents to compromise on a lovely name!
Yeah, and their butts are better decorated, too.
I particularly love the dark scent glands on their ankles. Imagine if we wore perfumed socks!