ATHENA STATUE ATHENE Greek mythology Wisdom War Weaving

#A-SA446     Athena, the Greek goddess of intelligence, of the arts of peace and war, and industry. She was the favorite child of Zeus. Her mother was Metis, goddess of wisdom and Zeus' first wife. In fear that the pregnant Metis would bear a son mightier than himself, Zeus swallowed her whole. When she began to make a robe and helmet for her daughter, the hammering of the helmet caused Zeus unbearable headaches. Skilled Hephaestus ran to his father and split his skull open and from it emerged Athena, fully grown and wearing her mother's robe and helmet.  She is the virgin mother of Erichthnonius. She is also known as Athene, Pallas Athena,  Tritogenia and Glaukopis, Athena Promachos (who fights in the foremost ranks) and Athena Alalcmeneis (who repulses the enemy) and Pronoia (the Foreseeing) She is often associated with the Roman goddess Minerva. A virgin goddess, she was one of only three impervious to the spells of Aphrodite.

Athena became the patron of the city of Athens by giving the people the gift of the olive tree. She is accompanied by an owl.  Arachne dared to challenge her at weaving, lost to her and was turned into a spider. Se took part in the war against the giants and fought on the side of the Greeks in the Trojan War, where she defeated Ares. She carried Zeus'  aegis, the shield he had given her.

Athena protects towns and acropolises, as well as many industries, horses and oxen. She is the patron god of architects and sculptors and known for aiding the valorous.

Originally she was worshipped as God (her name predates the Greek language) before her people were invaded by those whose religion would supplant and absorb theirs. So the Great Goddess, known by different names in different lands, became the daughters, sisters, wives and mothers of the Greek gods. Hence Athena's mother was swallowed up by Zeus, and Athena became his daughter.

Classic depiction of Athena, with goldleaf-painted accents, and fine details throughout this wonderful cold-cast resin statue. Approx. 12" tall.

Shipping may only be combined with other items whose # starts with A, are paid for at the same time and sent to the same address.

 International Buyers, please send complete delivery information for shipping charges.