Minerva-Athena by François Gaspard Adam (1760)  in Sanssouci Palace

The Greek goddess of wisdom Athena has at her feet her beloved pet , the sacred owl which symbolizes the clear sight of wisdom. The Athenians founded the Parthenon on the Acropolis to honor her and of course named the city Athens after her. The owl became a sort of Athenian mascot. She wears her helmet and she always has her shield with her because she was also the goddess who protected the people who fought fair wars against every injustice!