Two features, aside from the branch of Athena's olive on the left, add additional interest to this versatile piece: a serpent (symbol of Erichthonios, the ancient Athenian deity) and a turtle which was associated with the nearby island of Aegina.
owl of Athena pendant/brooch
dimensions
Diameter: 3.5cmmore about owls
Symbol of Athena, who was the goddess of wisdom, intelligence and resourcefulness. She was also the patron deity of Athens, the city to which she gave her name and the gift of the olive.
The owl was frequently depicted in the art and coinage of the city, especially from the 6th century BC onwards.
about this collection of jewellery
It has been a privilege to work with the Vaphiadis family since 2007. They are one of the best manufacturers of sterling silver jewellery in Greece.
The collection is inspired by ancient Greek silver and gold coins, the art and jewellery of the Minoan civilisation, familiar symbolic motifs and images, and the animals that played a significant part in ancient Greek culture.