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 an elaborate plumed helmet and a goatskin aegis trimmed with snakes. Her beautiful visage is comprised of almond-shaped eyes with concave pupils that may have once held inlays, an elegantly arched browline leading to an aquiline nose, pursed lips, and smooth facial planes, topped by a centrally-parted, rolled back coiffure. The applique has developed a gorgeous pale green patina over the ages. Size: 1.75" W x 3.3" H (4.4 cm x 8.4 cm); 3.7" H (9.4 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: ex Freiburg, Germany art market; K.B. collection, Pontiac, Michigan, USA, acquired from Royal Athena in November 1990. On loan to Picker Art Gallery, Colgate University, New York, USA and Fitchburg Art Museum, Massachusetts, USA from 1990 to 2016.
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#156852
Condition
Professional repair to right shoulder and front of helmet crest, with nearly invisible resurfacing and very light adhesive residue along break lines. Minor abrasions to some finer details and light encrustations. Great preservation to detailing across obverse.