
The Art Institute of Chicago
Tetradrachm (Coin) Depicting the Goddess Athena
Description
The front of this coin depicts the goddess Athena Parthenos wearing a triple crested Athenian helmet, the decorative scheme of which includes a flying Pegasus, palmettes and scrolls; the cheek piece of the helmet is raised, revealing loose curls of hair on the goddess's neck and a pendant earring. A decorative border of dots is partially preserved.
On the back an Owl, another symbol of Athena, stands atop a vessel on its side. A diminutive eagle is shown perched at left. The scene is encircled by an olive wreath.
Provenance
Mrs. William Nelson (Helen T.) Pelouze (1866-1953), Chicago; given to the Art Institute of Chicago, 1923.
Dimensions
Diam.: 3 cm (1 3/16 in.)
Movement / Period
Accession No
9655
Official Citations
Curatorial Affinity Stream
Continuing the Universe of Greek
greek • Athens • Harmonious Works & Contemporaries
Continuous Discovery