Nessus Abducting Dejanira 1814 - 1826

"Nessus Abducting Dejanira," a marble relief sculpture by Danish artist Bertel Thorvaldsen, depicts the mythological scene of the centaur Nessus abducting Dejanira. The artwork, now housed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, was created between 1814 and 1826. The dramatic composition, with Dejanira struggling against Nessus' grasp, showcases Thorvaldsen's mastery of classical sculpture, evoking the power and dynamism of ancient Greek art. This work, despite its violent theme, captures a powerful and poignant moment in the story of Dejanira, who was later tricked by Nessus into using his blood as a love potion, leading to the death of her husband, Hercules.