Fine C19th Carved Alabaster Sculpture Study After the Antique of Lucretia , Modelled as a Sleeping Ariadne .

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

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