Owl Skyphos

Greek, Attic, 2nd half of the 5th century B.C.
A skyphos, a vessel with horizontal and vertical handles was used as a general purpose drinking cup. The owl was a symbol of Athens and the city's goddess, Athena. Here it is shown flanked by olive branches - another attribute of Athena. The owl stood for wisdom and was ascribed prophetic powers, it was also considered a symbol of luck.