The Double Axe of the Bronze Age was originally an hourglass-shaped Goddess of Death and regeneration. The butterfly is the embodiment of the principle of Transformation. In Minoan art, a harmonious context is consistently provided for the butterfly symbol by its association with signs of becoming. Epiphany of the Goddess as a butterfly is represented by abstract figures. Late Minoan, S. Crete c. 1400 B.C.
The Language of the Goddess, Marija Gimbutas Pg. 273