Mythology Minoan Snake Goddess Artemis Pendant Reversible Greek Mythological Theme Knossos Crete Two Snakes in Hands Fertility Symbol Priestess Mother Goddess Diana Huntress Dual Sided Medallion Verdigris Patina Brass or Copper Vintage 1970s or 1980s This is a very unusual and rare dual sided or reversible pendant of the mother goddesses made of what I believe is either brass or copper. The metal is quite substantial and a magnet does not stick to it. It has a lovely turquoise verdigris patina finish. I have been unable to find another one like it in all my searches. The Minoan Snake Goddess is not a common subject for jewelry. These goddesses were very prominent in the Mythology of Crete and mainland Greece. It measuress approximately 2 1/2 inches long and 2 inches wide. I don't remember when I acquired this, most likely in the 1970s or 1980s. The front side is an image of the Minoan “Snake Goddess” that was first found by the British Archaeologist Arthur Evans in 1903 in the palace of Knossos, in Crete. It is thought that the dress may have been typical of the Minoan women, a tight bodice with the breasts bare, a long flounced skirt, and a decorative apron in the front. The Goddess holds two snakes in her raised hands and there is a small animal or bird perched on her head. Some people believe she was a snake charmer or priestess rather than a goddess. I believe the image on the back represents the Goddess Artemis, one of the most widely venerated of the ancient Greek deities. Her Roman equivalent is Diana. She was the daughter of Zeus and Leto and the twin sister of Apollo. She was the goddess of the hunt and was often depicted as a huntress carrying a bow and arrows. She was also known as a mother goddess, she was a virgin goddess, but also the goddess of childbirth and protector of the young. What a great gift this would make for any Mythology buff. This would look great on a leather cord choker or an antiqued long brass chain. It would be a perfect accessory for that favorite pair of jeans. It would also be fun to wear to a toga party. This will be sent 1st Class Mail with Delivery Confirmation. For more information about me and booth policies, click on Starfisher's Stars at the top of this page, it will take you to the main page of my booth. Thanks for visiting!