catalog text
BUST OF HERMES HOLDING INFANT DIONYSUS AFTER THE ANTIQUE BY PRAXITELES (GREEK, 400 - 330 B.C.)
Circa early 20th century, unsigned
Item # 912XGS06S
A dramatic and incredibly fine Classical bust of "Hermes of Praxiteles", this is an exquisite reproduction sculpted during the first half of the 20th century depicting the head and shoulders of the larger than life original statue discovered in May of 1877 before the temple of Hera in Olympia. The original was a third-century work sculpted by Praxiteles during the third century B.C. and represents Hermes holding in his left arm the infant Dionysus as the infant balances himself with his right hand on the shoulder of Hermes.
As a bust, the work is quite dramatic and leaves the viewer to imagine the rest of the image, this cryptic tiny hand grasping the strong shoulders of this figure. Hermes' face is serene with a powerful nose and steady gaze, his chin lowered with a hint of a smile edging across his lips. His body is powerful and luminescent in the glowing Carrara marble. It is a most powerful depiction of the Greek masterpiece.
An Important Note: This bust is incredibly heavy, weighing in total approximately 300 lbs. Lifting it from the crating may require special lifting tools. Placing it on a pedestal will require several very strong hands. Furthermore, the steel pin does not project deeply into the socle, so it should be placed in a space where it will not be disturbed for safety.
Measurements: 30 1/2" H x 14 1/2" D x 26" W
Condition Report:
Over original socle plinth. Minor chips and wear as expected, including some white rubbing to the rough carved reverse, some rubbing points to the hair, minor chips to the arm, other minor signs of wear. Discoloration to the marble. Overall remaining in excellent condition.