AboutIrulan Serena Expertise Able to answer any question dealing with Greco-Roman mythology. Experience comes from teaching classical literature in all levels of the school curriculum from middle school to university level for thirty-eight years.
In the Tuileries Gardens in Paris, there is a larger-than-life statue of a (seatred) female mythological figure. (I wish I could send you a picture). Quite majestic, she is wearing a feathered helmet in the Athenian Style--but it might be Roman. In her right hand she is holding a sword held by the handle, but with its tip on the ground. Distinctly warrior-like, there is something of a bandoleer across her chest (a quiver-strap perhaps?)
It is what is in her left hand however that interests me. She is holding a staff topped by a great eagle.
No indication is given on the statue as tho who this figure might represent--but I recall years ago reading of a mythological figure whose symbol was such a staff. I just can't remember who that is.
I might have suspected it is supposed to be Athena, or Hera, or even Juno--but the full set of wings on her back says no.
Does my description ring any bells with you?
Regards,
Dan O'Hanlon
Answer Hello Dan,
The statue you describe is Athena.
Only two goddesses were portrayed in a sitting position. Hera /Juno and Athena/Minerva. As queen of the gods and goddesses Hera could sit in the presence of Zeus. As goddess of wisdom, justice and war, Athena was second in command in war and as such was accorded a higher position than Hera, so Athena could also sit in the presence of Zeus.
THE OBJECTS MENTIONED:
FEATHERED HELMET: As goddess of justified war, Athena was given to wear the feathered war helmet of Zeus since she was his constant companion and his right hand in war. Athena was the only goddess who wore Zeus' helmet which she wore to represent him in a conflict.
SWORD POINTED DOWN: Two goddesses used this symbol to signify justice. Themis as goddess of Justice and Athena as goddess of justified war. When the Titans were exiled Themis powers were assumed by Athena. The sword point down signifies the act of dispensing justice.
BANDOLIER and EAGLE: What you call a bandolier is the AEGIS, chest protector which was part of Zeus' armor which only Athena was permitted to wear. It bore images of Zeus' eagles which were his symbolic birds representing supremacy over all.
STAFF WITH EAGLE: Only two Olympian goddesses held spears, Hera and Athena. The spear symbolized power, thus these two goddesses were given power over all the rest. Athena held Zeus' spear which only she could handle during war and peace.
As you may or may not know Athena was his favorite among the goddesses since she was his favorite daughter.
For a more detailed history and images of Athena please see the following sites:
