A pair of Naopoleon III bronze and parcel gilt figures of Mars and Minerva, the gods of War wearing plumed helmets, chased breastplates and carrying sunburst mask emblazoned, oval shields, the tapering scroll plinths centred by shells, on toupe feet -- 23½in. (59.8cm.) high. (2)

Details

A pair of Naopoleon III bronze and parcel gilt figures of Mars and Minerva, the gods of War wearing plumed helmets, chased breastplates and carrying sunburst mask emblazoned, oval shields, the tapering scroll plinths centred by shells, on toupe feet -- 23½in. (59.8cm.) high. (2)

Lot Essay

Minerva is portrayed wearing breastplate modelled with the serpent head of Medusa, in her left hand she carries an olive branch, the symbol of wisdom.

In mythology it is the wisdom of Minerva which differentiates between her and Mars. Wheras Mars fought for the sake of Destruction, the goddess upheld the defence of just causes.

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