Description

Fine C19th carved alabaster sculpture study after the antique of Lucretia , modelled as a sleeping Ariadne .
Raised upon a classically decorated architectural plinth , the study of the mortally wounded Lucretia in Roman period costume depicting Ariadne . The story from early Roman history of the rape of Lucretia by Sextus Tarquinius and her subsequent suicide was a popular subject in Renaissance art . Lucretia is shown lain upon an upholstered day-bed with a dagger by her side , the self-inflicted suicidal wound to her breast.
Lucretia was a legendary Roman matron whose fate played a role in the transition from a Roman Kingdom into a Roman Republic. Her suicide after being raped by an Etruscan king's son, Tarquinius, was an immediate cause of the anti-monarchist rebellion that overthrew the monarchy. The incident kindled the flames of dissatisfaction over the tyrannical methods of the last King of Rome , Lucius Tarquinius Superbus . As a result of its sheer impact , the rape itself became a major theme in European art and literature.
The marble original was purchased by Pope Julius II in 1512 and installed in the Belvedere Courtyard, where it remains today in the Vatican Museums.
The portrayal of Lucretia here being as Ariadne, the Cretan princess daughter of King Minos from Greek Mythology.
In excellent condition and of good colour with a good , aged , smooth surface. Fine carved detail to the folds of cloth on the figure and well-modelled feet ,hands and face. The sculpted figure mounted upon pins to the plinth and is detachable. Crisply-carved architectural element details to the plinth base ,with classical flower-head and leaf carving to central frieze .
Minor chip to reverse edge of base.
* A larger version sold by Sotheby's "Spetchley - Property from the Berkeley Collection " December 11th 2019 Lot.No. 17 �8750
W 12"
D 5"
H 10"
Italy c. 1870
Established in the Cathedral City of Worcester for over 40 years ,M.Lees&Sons , run by Michael Lees ,have been dealing with public and trade from show-rooms in an early Georgian town-house. We aim to provide a straight-forward approach to our business and build lasting relationships with our customers. As members of the 'London and Provincial Antique Dealers Association' , we provide full descriptive details , date ,authenticity and any available provenance ,with full disclosure of any restoration or repair which may have taken place .
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Past projects have included advising clients on forming and disposing of collections , furnishing period properties , hotel and commercial projects , also a shoot-room and lodge .
All goods are available to view and owned by M.Lees&Sons .
If visiting, a telephone call prior is advisable as due to the demands of the business the show-room does not have regular hours . Please feel free to contact us if we can be of assistance .
www.leesantiquesworcester.com.
Tel. 01905 26620 / 07860826218
Located in the centre of Worcester in the shadow of the Cathedral with easy parking nearby. Exit Junction 7 M5 and follow the signs for Worcester Porcelain Museum . Our premises are located 100 metres from the Museum and 50 metres from Pay&Display car-park in nearby King St.
Internal Ref: ML 1511