About this piece
back to topAn antique carved alabaster sculpture of the Rape of Polyxena, after the antique.
Dating to circa 1870, this Italian sculpture displays a striking depiction of the kidnapping, evoking movement and intrigue.
The three Greek mythological characters display eye catching features complimented by timeworn weathering.
The naked warrior holds a young maiden in his left hand, while he raises his sword with the other, to silence the other woman who can be seen throwing herself upon him. The other figure lays slain beneath them.
This sculpture is a striking decorative piece for a Neoclassical or Grand Tour style home looking to appreciate mythology and historical artwork.
The Rape of Polyxena
This alabaster sculpture is a copy of the original by sculptor Pio Fedi (1816-1871), who unveiled his depiction of the rape of polyxena the public in 1866, which today stands in the “Loggia dei Lanzi” in Piazza della Signoria next to Cellini’s and Giambologna’s statues.
The story describes the naked Greek warrior Neoptolomos, the son of Achilles, abducting Polyxena, a Trojan maiden who was sacrificed on the funeral pyre of the dead Achilles.
Polyxena’s mother is seen pleading with the warrior to spare her daughter, while her son lays beneath her, already slain.
The original was carved from a single block of Carrara marble, which led to Fedi’s fame and fortune when the city of Florence bought and proudly displayed it.
