A Late 19th-century Patinated Bronze, C.1890–1900 'The Sleeping Ariadne'

An elegant and finely modelled late 19th-century bronze depicting the mythological figure of Ariadne reclining in peaceful slumber, attributed to the sculptor Pedro Rigual, circa 1890–1900. Weight 3.37 kg

The composition portrays Ariadne in a graceful, languid pose, her head resting upon one hand whilst the other arm curves above her head. Her flowing classical drapery falls naturally across the figure, revealing the sculptor’s accomplished treatment of the female form and particular attention to the intricate folds of fabric.

The bronze displays a rich, warm brown patination with attractive variations in tone, highlighting the finely worked details of the face, hands, feet and drapery. The elongated rectangular base forms an integral part of the composition.

The subject derives from the classical mythology of Ariadne, daughter of King Minos of Crete, who was abandoned by Theseus on the island of Naxos and subsequently discovered by Dionysus. The sleeping Ariadne became a celebrated subject in classical sculpture and was frequently revisited by European artists during the 19th century.

The bronze is attributed to Pedro Rigual, although no signature has been identified, and the attribution remains unconfirmed.

It is believed that the sculpture may originally have been mounted upon a separate marble plinth, now absent.

A beautifully decorative example of late 19th-century figurative bronze sculpture, equally suited to a traditional interior, library or contemporary collection.

Condition: Attractive aged patination with surface wear consistent with age. No separate marble plinth present.

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