Minerva, Goddess Of Wisdom, Justice And Law

20 x 15 cm (7.8 x 6 inches).

Minerva was the Roman goddess of wisdom, justice, law and victory. Minerva was originally a goddess of war, hence her armour. She fought on behalf of just causes and is therefore seen as a civilising influence, in contrast to Mars.

This beautiful antique print of a statue was made in 1723 by Simon Thomassin in Paris.
It is from his work 'Recuel des Statue, Groupes, Fontaines, Termes, Vases et Autres Mangifique Ornamens du Chateau et Parc de Versailles' about the magnificent statues and fountains at the Palace of Versaille. King Louis XIV commissioned the work. Thomassin held the title Graveur du Roy (Engraver of the King).

This antique print was made by engraving on a copper printing plate and printing on handmade chain-linked paper.It is in excellent condition considering it was made nearly 300 years ago.