 The late Republican "Ceres Mater" (Mother Ceres) is described as "genetrix" (progenitress) and "alma" (nourishing); in the early Imperial era she becomes an Imperial deity, and receives joint cult with Ops Augusta, Ceres' own mother in Imperial guise and a bountiful genetrix in her own right.Several of Ceres' ancient Italic precursors are connected to human fertility and motherhood; the Pelignan goddess "Angitia Cerealis" has been identified with the Roman goddess Angerona (associated with childbirth).Ceres was patron and protector of plebeian laws, rights and Tribunes.