Model Ansley Gulielmi drifts in a state of repose in ‘Halcyon Days’, which now signifies any time of happiness and contentment.

Jillian Davison styles Gulielmi in sleek swimwear and accessories images by Darren McDonald [IG] for Harper’s Bazaar UK July-August 2023./ Hair by Peter Grey; makeup by Sara Tagloa

The Mythical Origin of Halcyon Days in Greek Mythology

In the realm of Greek mythology, the enchanting tale that gives birth to the "Halcyon Days" revolves around the bond between two lovers - Alcyone, the daughter of Aeolus, the ruler of winds, and Ceyx, the king of Thessaly. Their story, brimming with love, tragedy, and transcendent hope, has become eternally intertwined with the calm and serene Halcyon Days.

Alcyone and Ceyx were deeply devoted to each other, surpassed by few in their unbreakable connection. However, driven by ambition and insatiable curiosity, Ceyx decided to embark on a treacherous sea journey. Despite Alcyone’s pleas and premonitions of danger, Ceyx, motivated by his longing for adventure, was determined to set sail.

Legend holds that Poseidon, the mighty god of the seas, witnessed Ceyx’s audacity and arrogance, which displeased him. In his wrath, Poseidon conjured a tempest of unprecedented ferocity, engulfing Ceyx's vessel, leaving no hope for survival.

Heartbroken upon learning of her beloved's tragic fate, Alcyone pleaded with the gods for mercy. She ventured to Amphitrite, the wife of Poseidon, beseeching her to give her husband's body back so she could honor him with a proper burial. Touched by her undying love, Amphitrite convinced Poseidon to transform the couple into birds, allowing them to reunite under a new form.

Thus, Alcyone and Ceyx emerged as the Halcyon birds, resembling vibrant kingfishers. With radiant azure plumage, they became intertwined with the Halcyon Days. Legend has it that these birds possessed a unique power during the winter solstice in Greece. For a brief period of peaceful and tranquil weather, the mighty winds would cease, and the seas would calm, allowing the kingfishers to build their nests by the shore.

Once the Halcyon Days arrived, lasting seven to fourteen days depending on the interpretation, mariners called a halt to their sea voyages, recognizing the auspiciousness of these calm days granted by the gods. They believed that any harm that befell a vessel during this period would bring upon them divine retribution.