Minerva
Minerva
Minerva
By Hendrick Goltzius
Minerva
Minerva
Minerva

Minerva is the goddess of science and patroness of the arts. She leans against her shield, which shows the head of Medusa. At her feet lie books, a folder, a pen and its case, a shuttle and a lute. These attributes are associated with the practice of art. The painting shows intelligence and stupidity set against each other. King Midas, with his huge ears, is known for his stupidity.