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Sleeping Ariadne

£57,400.00

Delivery time: 2 weeks. Deliveries to Scotland: 3 weeks. Free delivery in England, Scotland & Wales (except islands)
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Sleeping Ariadne – buy replica as marble or bronze statue

This work is the marble sculpture of the sleeping Ariadne. A Roman-Hadrian work based on a Hellenistic bronze sculpture of the Pergamenian school from the 2nd century BC. This Roman marble version is considered one of the most famous sculptures of antiquity. The reclining figure in a chiton tied under her breasts is half reclining, squatting, her outstretched legs crossed at the calves, her head resting on her left arm and her right arm thrown over her head. She was originally identified as Cleopatra because of the snake bracelet on her left upper arm.

 

There are other Roman copies of this model: one, the “Wilton House Ariadne”, is essentially unrestored, while another, the “Medici Ariadne” found in Rome, was probably heavily reworked in modern times. Two surviving statuettes bear witness to a Roman trade in reductions of this well- known figure. Another version of the sleeping Ariadne can be found in the Prado Museum in Madrid. A later Roman version was found in the gardens of the Villa Borghese in Rome and can be found in the Louvre Museum.

 

The Sleeping Ariadne depicted here was acquired by Pope Julius II in 1512 and immediately placed in the Belvedere courtyard, which connects the Vatican Palace with the papal casina, the Belvedere, where her neighbours were the recently discovered Laocoon and the Belvedere Apollo.

 

The replica offered in our online shop is a version of the Vatican original that was slightly adapted by Primatticcio in the 16th century. It was used as the basis for a bronze cast in France for Francis I at the Château de Fontainebleau. The pose was slightly altered and the limbs of the sleeping nymph were lengthened slightly. The plaster cast that serves as the model for our replica on offer here was made from this bronze.

Description

Antique statue, cast bronze in museum quality

The sculpture is produced as a bronze casting using the traditional lost wax technique. The negative mould required for this is based on a plaster cast of the bronze statue in Fontainebleau, which in turn is based on the Vatican marble original.

 

Cast marble & marble sculpture from the sculptor

In addition to classic bronze casting, we also offer two other moulds for the statues shown here. Marble casting from powdered genuine white marble. And the new moulding of the statue by sculptors from a single block of white marble. If you are interested in such a mould, please do not hesitate to contact us. We look forward to receiving your e-mail or phone call.

 

Authentic Reproductions of Ancient Bronze Statues: Classical Weathered Patina and, exclusively new and available only with us, the Original Antique Patina based on the latest 2022 Louvre research findings

We offer two exceptional patina options for bronze statues. The first is the classical patina, which beautifully captures the natural weathered appearance of bronze. Since the rediscovery of ancient life-sized bronzes, this patina has become the preferred choice and is available in up to three popular variations.

 

For enthusiasts seeking an authentic, antique aesthetic, we present a groundbreaking innovation: a faithfully recreated surface finish that matches precisely what the ancient audience would have admired. Thanks to the spectacular research findings published by the Louvre Museum in late 2022, we are now able to replicate the surface of ancient life-sized bronzes with remarkable accuracy. The multi-year study of the Charioteer of Delphi, conducted using cutting-edge technology, revealed that the statue, aside from minor details such as the eyes, headband, and belt, once displayed a high-gloss, golden sheen reminiscent of subtly shimmering gold leaf. It is therefore highly likely that renowned ancient sites, such as Delphi, Olympia, and Delos, presented themselves to ancient visitors with bronze statues gleaming in golden splendour.

This effect was achieved through the use of bronze with a 10% tin content. Armed with this scientifically substantiated knowledge, we can now offer an authentically recreated, antique surface for our reproductions of ancient life-sized bronzes – a level of precision that was unattainable prior to these 2022 research advancements.

 

Individualisation of the statue

Each statue cast by us is engraved in the base with a serial number, date of manufacture and our company logo. The base is also engraved with your name, a lettering, the occasion of production, your own company logo or additional engraving as required.

 

Your very personal legacy

Our life-size cast bronze replicas are therefore not only artistic replicas, but also timeless reminders that will preserve your legacy for generations to come. By engraving your name, the date and the occasion on the base, this statue becomes an everlasting symbol of your most personal life achievement, your significance in this world and your work there.

 

Memory cast in bronze in the radiant light of antiquity

Ancient Greek bronze statues and their masterfully crafted Roman marble replicas were the sensual and visual mirror of these two advanced civilisations for over a millennium. After their rediscovery during the Renaissance, these statues once again became world-famous and symbolised the emergence of modernity.

 

In keeping with the ancient traditions of Delphi and Rome, the statue made for you and with your name as the donor will forever be a reminder of your personality and achievements.

 

Locations for the installation of ancient statues & list of parks with ancient sculptures

In exceptionally designed gardens and parks, alongside high horticultural artistry and exceptionally beautiful design, the use of top-notch furnishings often shines. Whether it’s furniture or statues and sculptures. Now original antique statues are not or very rarely available for sale. Since their rediscovery in the Renaissance, costly replicas have such been made for castles, their parks, and concurrently for the mansions of the bourgeoisie who have attained great wealth. During this time, a canon for the placement and positioning of these artworks formed and developed into modern times. In our online shop, you’ll find an overview of particularly beautiful locations for ancient statues. Additionally, we provide you with an overview of some publicly accessible gardens and parks, each boasting an impressive collection of ancient sculptures, along with specific details on where each statue can be seen.

 

Product details

Sleeping Ariadne
Item No.S35
MaterialBronze cast
dimension (height x width x depth)111 cm x 240 cm x 96,5 cm
What you receiveSingle piece, Bronze cast. The exact design details, measurements and weight as well as the structure and colour of the Bronze cast may vary.
DeliveryDelivered using our own van
Delivery ChargeFree delivery in England and Wales (except islands) and to a few EU countries. Click here for details.
Price incl. VAT£57,400.00