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NetherCraft's larger-than-life representation of the Roman goddess Minerva (Pallas Athena in the Greek pantheon) stands 7' 7" tall from sandalled foot to bristling crest. Much of the lore of Minerva comes from the Greek myths, but her theology and ritual come as much from the Etruscans who knew her as Mnrva. These Italians also called her Tecum, her oracular name, which is here engraved on the spaulder strap across her breast. Above this is a small face of Pallas, with snakes coming down from the spaulders and holding the corset behind. These literalist touches, along with the swirling cape, expressive shield, and shifting braids are in keeping with the Baroque period. Her expression is contemplative, more aeternal, to evoke a sense of spiritual sincerity. Thus NetherCraft's Minerva holds a posture of patient grace, a balanced contraposto, on a scale to inpire as the Baroque masters have. Within the context of her fountain, she is beckoning Neptune to smite the Greek (Achaean) fleet. During the Trojan war Cassandra, priestess of Apollo, had taken refuge in Minerva's temple but nonetheless was violated by Ajax the Lesser, thus incurring the wrath of Minerva: "For Ajax raped Cassandra in my Temple, and the Achaeans did nothing. Make the sea thunder with the tripled wave and spinning surf, cram thick the Eoboean fold with the floating dead; so after this Greeks may learn how to use with fear my sacred places, and respect all Gods beside." Euripides, the Trojan Women NetherCraft's Minerva was also designed to be a stand-alone piece. Her open hand, instead of holding a sword, emphasizes her role as the goddess of wisdom, as do the owls on her helm. The Romans attributed almost all crafts to her, making her as much like Prometheus as like Mars. About her shoulders is the hide of the Titan Pallas, whom she slew and took the powers of, further developing her warlike nature. While she has a great many half-siblings, she alone sprang complete from the head of Jove, the almighty, guarantor of oaths and giver of law. Juno, in the Aeneid, is jealous of her ballistic wrath at the Greeks, and was hard put to match it against the Trojans. A twenty-first century tribute to the genius and majesty of the old masters, NetherCraft's Minerva is cast in acrylic, epoxy and fiberglass to weather the fiercest storms. She will be the breathtaking centerpiece of your garden or grounds, either standing alone or as the focal point of her baroque fountain. Serious inquirers are invited to contact NetherCraft to discuss availability, delivery, and installation. |
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