Description:

Roman, Imperial Period, ca. 2nd to 3rd century CE. A finely cast bronze applique in the form of a bust of helmeted Minerva (Greek Athena) - goddess of wisdom, art, commerce, and military victory - wearing her tradition plumed, Corinthian helmet and a goatskin aegis trimmed with snakes. Crowned by a centrally parted coiffure, her ovoid visage is comprised of petite eyes, a straight nose, and closed lips. Size: 0.8" W x 2" H (2 cm x 5.1 cm); 2.9" H (7.4 cm) on included custom stand.

Regarded as the daughter of Jupiter, from whose head she allegedly was born, Minerva was initially worshipped in Rome as one of the Capitoline Triad along with Jupiter and Juno. At first she was revered as the goddess of handicrafts, poetry, and the arts in general. Over time, Minerva's stature grew within the Roman pantheon and she became the most important focus of the Quinquatrus festival, which previously had been the domain of Mars, whose amorous affections she famously refused. The five-day festival began on March 19th marking the beginning of the Roman army's campaign season. Minerva also became associated with the concept of victory, as illustrated by Pompey's dedication of a temple to her following his successful campaigns in the east. Similarly, Emperor Domitian claimed the goddess as his protectress and in the second half of the 1st century CE commissioned a temple to her in the Nerva Forum in Rome.

Provenance: private Fort Lauderdale, Florida, USA collection; ex-Minerva Gallery; ex-Benjamin Vega, California, USA, acquired in 2006 to 2007; ex-Gene and Virginia George, brought to the USA from 1961 to 1966

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#177915

  • Condition: Expected surface wear with abrasions and some loss of detail, but otherwise intact. Rich patina throughout.

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April 20, 2023 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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