Twee terracotta sculpturen van Diana en Proserpina before 1857

Here we see two terracotta sculptures of Diana and Proserpina by Marcel Gustave Laverdet. The figures' materiality and posture convey a sense of ancient mystery and grace. Laverdet's choice of terracotta connects these figures to historical precedents, yet the stark presentation disrupts traditional classical art, suggesting a modern commentary on these mythological figures. The formal elements of line and form contribute to the sculptures' expressiveness. The lines define the draping garments and the contours of the bodies, while the play of light and shadow models the figures, enhancing their presence. The textures of the terracotta are not just material, but a signifier of the past, giving each figure a unique visual identity. The dimensions of the sculptures encourage viewers to reconsider the historical narratives, and cultural contexts through a new lens.