Antique Italian Patinated Bronze Statue of Narcissus

An antique late 19th century Italian patinated bronze statue of Narcissus; the Greek God referred to as ‘the self-lover’.

Cast in bronze, this Grand Tour style Narcissus statue dates from 1880 and as such has a wonderful Verdigris oxidised patina that only exposure to the elements through time can create.

The Greek God stands nude as he is often depicted in sculpture with locks of curling hair, open-toed sandals and a confident, swagger-like stance, above a circular plinth base.

It is a charismatic, beautifully weathered sculpture for an interior or garden, especially those inspired by styles of Roman and Greek mythology.
The sculpture is marked story to its underside.

Narcissus

In Greek mythology, Narcissus is described as a very handsome hunter, the prize of his hunt draped over his left shoulder.

When he was born, a blind seer told his mother that her son would have a long life, provided he never recognised himself. As was his beauty, many fell in love with him.

However, he rejected all romantic advances, only showing others contempt. Eventually, at the vengeance of the Gods, Narcissus was led to a pool of water where he fell in love with his own reflection.

It is said he stared at it for the remainder of his life before transforming into the flower of the same name.