Object Description
This impressive 19th century neoclassical bust is made in plaster and depicts a section of the iconic ‘Hermes of Praxiteles’ statue by famed sculptor of the classical era, Praxiteles. Also referred to as ‘Hermes Carrying the Infant Dionysus’, the original is crafted in marble and portrays God of Greek mythology Hermes standing with the baby God Dionysus. This plaster Hermes bust is a part reproduction of this iconic statue, depicting Hermes’ head, shoulders and upper torso in exceptional detail with muscular proportions and curled locks. As in the original, the hand of the infant Dionysus is present on Hermes left shoulder. It sits arrestingly on a cylindrical scagliola column that simulates variegated Sienna marble with a white painted socle foot.
Cast in the early 1800s, this plaster bust is an age-old object with flaking paint in places.
Hermes and the Infant Dionysus
The original Hermes statue in marble on which this plaster bust is based resides at the Archaeological Museum of Olympia in Greece. In the full statue, Hermes right hand is lost. It is thought to have once held a bunch of grapes which he wistfully dangled in front of the infant Dionysus, a God associated with wine and intoxication. The original marble statue is an icon of Greek statuary, making this painted plaster cast a fragment of neoclassical history for a home. It is an excellent stand alone piece, looking striking in an entrance hall, alcove or drawing room as an item of historical interest.
Additional Information
Column measures H 91 cm (35.82 in) x D 42 cm (16.53 in)