Minerva Magazine - September/October 2013

In this issue

8 The life and inventions of the brilliant 3rd-century Greek polymath Archimedes are being celebrated in an exhibition in Rome. Dalu Jones

Reading the Parthenon Symbols of death and rebirth, evidence of politics and propaganda, and the thin dividing line between confidence and hubris can all be seen in Greece’s most famous temple. David Stuttard

Ancient order – new art The world-renowned abstract artist Sean Scully reveals what has inspired his work, notably the DORIC series. Mark Merrony

The puzzle on the pediment Uncovering the identity of the naked male figure reclining on the East Pediment of the Parthenon. Dyfri Williams

Land of gold A preview of a stunning new exhibition, looking at the significance, power and use of gold in ancient Colombia, that opens at the British Museum in October. Elisenda Vila Llonch and Leonora Duncan

The majesty of Marseille Now that it is European Cultural Capital 2013, Western Europe’s most ancient metropolis is promoting its long and glorious heritage in two exciting new museums. Christopher Follett

Sailing close to the wind Did the project to prove that the Phoenicians circumnavigated Africa 2000 years before the Portuguese succeed? James Beresford

38 The discreet charm of the Cham In search of the richly carved temple towers of the Cham people among the secret valleys of Vietnam. Carol Howland

A brush with the fox Looking back to a time when this familiar animal played an important, complex, even cosmic role in ancient society. Hugh Kolb