Attributes in Iconography

In Greek art, the gods were often depicted with certain attributes or motifs by which they could be identified. This is a brief list for easy reference and is not meant to be definitive.

Aphrodite

• sceptre
• mirror - image

Apollo

• cithara - a stringed instrument
• lyre - a stringed instrument
• tripod - a three legged stool - image
• bow - shared with Artemis
• fawn - shared with Artemis

Ares

• often depicted as warrior

Artemis

• bow
• fawn

Athene

• aegis - a fringed cloak, sometimes decorated with a Gorgon's head
• helmet
• spear

Demeter

• torch
• crown
• sceptre
• stalks of grain - image

Dionysos

• drinking vessel
• ivy wreath
• grape vines
• thyrsos - a long fennel stalk topped with ivy leaves - image

Hades

• cornucopia - horn of plenty
• sceptre

Hephaistos

• axe
• tongs

Hera

• no special attributes, but sometimes holds a sceptre - image

Hermes

• kerykeion - messenger's staff
• winged boots
• petassos - a cap

Hestia

• no special attributes, but associated with the hearth - image
• few images of Hestia exist.

Persephone/Kore

• torch - image
• crown
• sceptre
• stalks of grain

Poseidon

• trident - a spear with three prongs
• fish

Zeus

• lightning bolt
• eagle
• sceptre

Classical Myth Homepage | Gods | Help | Time Line | Attributes

Maintained by Laurel Bowman: lbowman@uvic.ca. Last updated: June 28, 2002.

Copyright | Disclaimer