Theseus and the Minotaur 1783

This marble sculpture, "Theseus and the Minotaur" by Antonio Canova, depicts the Greek hero Theseus triumphantly standing over the defeated Minotaur. Completed in 1783, the piece showcases Canova's Neoclassical style, emulating the idealized forms of ancient Greek sculpture. The smooth, polished marble and the figures' serene expressions convey a sense of classical harmony and restraint, emphasizing the triumph of reason over barbarity. The sculpture’s subject matter, drawn from Greek mythology, further highlights the artist’s interest in classical themes and his ability to translate literary narratives into compelling visual form.