Triptolemus
in mythology, the son of Celeus, King of Attica, by Neæra.
The goddess Ceres wished to make him immortal, but was prevented through the meddling curiosity of his mother. She, however, taught him agriculture, and rendered him serviceable to mankind by instructing him how to sow corn and make bread. She also gave him her chariot, drawn by two dragons, in which he traveled over the earth, and distributed corn to all the inhabitants of the world.
TRIPTYCH (trip'tik), a writing tablet in three parts, two of which might be folded over the middle part; hence sometimes an ecclesiastical register of names on a triple tablet, or a book or treatise in three parts or sections. Also a picture, carving, or other representation, generally on panel, with two hanging doors or leaves, by which it could be closed in front. Triptychs were constructed of various materials and dimensions; ivory and enameled triptychs were adorned with sacred subjects and emblems. They were frequently used for altar pieces. The central figure is usually complete in itself. The subsidiary designs on either side of it are smaller, and frequently correspond in size and shape to one-half of the principal picture.