This painting served as a manifesto for the Vienna Secession. Athena’s haunting, human eyes and the flat, scaly golden armour represent the goddess of wisdom as a protector of modern art. It is a bold rejection of academic tradition, utilising myth to champion the creative freedom of the new movement. The face of Medusa on her chestplate is sticking its tongue out, a direct insult aimed at Klimt’s critics.

Studio Gallery Frame in black; acrylic safety front; ready-to-hang option.

Gift-ready, arriving hand-wrapped in acid-free tissue paper. Plastic-free packaging.

Image CC0.