The featured coin is the Athena Tetradrachm originally minted 431-413 BC and depicting the wise owl. The inscription reads ΑΘΕ, a monogram attributed to the goddess Athena (ΑΘΗΝΑ), the virgin godess of wisdom, who was also the protectress of the city of Athens. The proportions of the coin reflects those of superb tetradrachm specimens found in the remarkable collection in the National Musuem of Greece, the scale of the coin has been reduced for the purpose of becoming a medium sized pendant with a comfortable size and wholesome weight. The coin is cast in earth using a primitive method for higher definition. The ring has an incredible weight of sterling and is made by old-school artisans with antique quality craftsmanship.
The 'Owl of Wisdom'. A museum quality reproduction of the Athenian silver tetradrachm coin made from solid Sterling Silver. Banded version. Custom-sizing to all sizes.
Depicted is the owl and the olive branch (upper left), two of the most important and characteristic ancient Greek symbols. These emblems remain the universal and eternal symbols of wisdom and Peace.
Background & History
The significance of the owl was the virtue of Wisdom. It was usually depicted accompanying Athena (Roman Minerva), the all important virgin Godess to whom perhaps the most significant shrine of classical antiquity, the Parthenon, was built in honor of. Her worship peaked during the golden age of Pericles 461 BC to 379 BC. It was during this inspiring age of wisdom that philosophy, architecture, medicine, theatre and the arts were first established as fabric to society to set grounds to an array of social fundaments as they are today, whilst the radical concept of 'democracy' was also first fostered.
The all knowing, all watching wise owl, inspired this progress and thereon became the embodiment of the creative wisdom of man, able to generate civilization in physical and spiritual realms. In tribute, it was depicted on various denominations of the tetradrachm in the 5th Century BC to reach every part of the known world and spread its important meaning. Today, more than 2 millenia later, this owl still has it's honorary place on the Greek 1 Euro coin.
Size:
Cap's diameter diameter 20mm (0.79 inch). Width of band 4mm (1.55 inch) .The volume of this ring is idealy suited for ladies and gentlemen alike.
Material:
925 Solid Sterling Silver
Weight:
Aprox 8-12grams. Varies by size.
Custom sizing: This ring can be sutom sized to the following sizes: ALL SIZES (see dropdown menu)
Comments
The quality and of this ring is displayed in the vivid detail of the depiction and the ring's all-around fine finish. This article has been one of the definite favourites from our collection over the last decades.
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