This month's altar honours Menrva, the Etruscan goddess of war, art, wisdom, and medicine. Ancient Etruscan civilization, which arose in the 9th century BCE in Tuscany and area, dominated Italy until it fell to Rome in the late 4th century BCE. Menrva inspired the creation, character, and attributes of her Greek and Roman divine feminine counterparts Athena and Minerva.
The statue of Menrva on the altar is an Etruscan reproduction which I bought in Florence while vacationing in Tuscany in 2008. The warrior goddess carrying her owl of wisdom rides triumphantly in her chariot drawn by a beautifully stylized steed.
Similarly, the little porcelain art deco grecian urn holding the red taper candle dates from my antiquing days as well. I found it about 30 years ago in a rural Manitoba barn stuffed full to bursting with antiques, collectibles and just plain old junk. I have always loved it!
As with my August full moon altar, synchronicity once again made itself known after I created this altar to Menrva. I was notified that a dear gay male friend, with whom we shared a villa in Tuscany on our 2008 trip, had passed away in October. His obituary said how much he loved Italy, its culture and people, and had returned to it for six months last year to study the language and become fluent. I attended his funeral a couple of days ago. Rest in peace, Jim.
[Photos © Debra She Who Seeks, 2025]
