Minerve à la chouette, Ancient statue in Jardin du Luxembourg, France
Minerve à la chouette is a stone statue in the Jardin du Luxembourg depicting the Roman goddess of wisdom. The work shows the goddess alongside an owl, which traditionally symbolizes knowledge and learning.
This statue dates to the 9th century and belongs to early medieval artistic production in France. It demonstrates how ancient Roman themes continued to influence European sculpture during this period.
The sculpture portrays the Roman goddess of wisdom alongside her owl, both representing learning and intellect in a public garden setting. Visitors can observe how classical deities were placed in French parks as symbols of knowledge and enlightenment.
The sculpture is located in the Jardin du Luxembourg in the 6th arrondissement and is freely accessible during garden hours. The site is easily reached on foot and the garden provides ample space for a comfortable visit.
The work blends depictions from Roman antiquity with medieval craftsmanship, making it a rare example of artistic transition between periods. This mix shows how the revival of classical themes began well before the Renaissance of the 15th century.
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