Head of Athena

Rhodes (?), Greece

Late Hellenistic Period, 1st century BCE

Marble

H: 15 cm

Bequest of Norbert Schimmel, New York, to American Friends of the Israel Museum

Accession number:

91.71.335

Archaeology/Classical Archaeology

Photo © The Israel Museum, Jerusalem, by Vladimir Naikhin

Athena, goddess of wisdom, was the patroness of weaving, crafts, and the more disciplined aspect of war. Called Parthenos (virgin), and Promachos (the one who leads in battle), she is often shown helmeted, wearing a goatskin breastplate and carrying a shield, with Medusa’s head depicted on either the breastplate or shield.

From the Israel Museum publications:

Muscarella, Oscar White, ed., Ancient Art: The Norbert Schimmel Collection, Philipp von Zabern, Mainz, Germany, 1974

Exhibitions:

Ancient Art: The Norbert Schimmel Collection, Israel Museum, Jerusalem, Spertus and Library Entrance Hall, 08/05/1977 - 12/12/1977

Gods and Mortals: Selected Objects from the Norbert Schimmel Collection, Israel Museum, Jerusalem, 17/05/1992 - 31/10/1992