Discover the Grace of Athena: A Timeless Antique Plaster Statue

Step back in time with our exquisite early to mid-20th-century plaster statue of Athena, inspired by the iconic original from the 1st century AD, now residing in the Museum of Fine Arts – Sainte Croix de Poitiers. This remarkable piece represents Athena, the revered Greek goddess of war, intelligence, arts, and industry, capturing her essence in stunning detail.

Adorned with her iconic attributes, the aegis – a marvellous shield embellished with the Gorgon Medusa’s head (gorgoneion) – rests proudly on her chest, accompanied by her signature helmet. Notably, this version forgoes the traditional warrior symbols, showcasing Athena’s wisdom and peacekeeping attributes instead.

The original marble statue was serendipitously unearthed during excavation work at the Paul-Bert school in Poitiers back in 1902, adding to its historical significance. Scholars speculate that its origin lies in Rome during the early 1st century BC, hinting at potential political importance in Poitiers / Limonum, linked to the imperial cult. Undoubtedly, this masterpiece must have adorned a prominent public space in the Pictonian capital, making it an emblem of divine wisdom and strength.

Artistically inspired by archaic Greek representations from the 6th-5th centuries BC, this antique plaster statue of Athena stands as a testament to the enduring allure of ancient art. Each meticulously crafted detail brings this awe-inspiring goddess to life, making it a prized addition to any antique connoisseur’s collection.

Take home a piece of history and embody the essence of Athena’s grace with this timeless antique plaster statue. Immerse yourself in the splendour of classical art and allow the spirit of the Greek goddess to empower your space with wisdom, valour, and beauty. Don’t miss the chance to own this exceptional treasure – explore our antique collection now and unlock the enchantment of Athena for yourself. Have a look at many more such antique carvings in our collection.