Sculptuur van slapende Ariadne, Vaticaan c. 1857 - 1875

This photograph, taken by James Anderson between 1857 and 1875, depicts a marble sculpture of the sleeping Greek mythological figure Ariadne. Ariadne was a princess abandoned by Theseus on the island of Naxos, where she was discovered by the god Dionysus. The sculpture, likely Roman, is situated on a pedestal featuring a frieze of figures in relief, highlighting the dramatic narrative of Ariadne's life. Anderson's photograph showcases the sculpture in a captivating and realistic manner, bringing a piece of classical art into the homes of Victorian audiences. The image is a striking example of photography's role in documenting and disseminating artistic treasures.