The Shepherd Faustulus Carrying Romulus and Remus 1896

This is a plaster sculpture depicting The Shepherd Faustulus Carrying Romulus and Remus, made by Th. Stein in the late 19th century. The myth of Romulus and Remus is central to the foundation of Rome, and here we see them being rescued as infants. The image presents a fascinating intersection of classical mythology and 19th-century artistic values. The classical story is infused with the artist’s contemporary understanding of heroism and civic duty. Notice the attention to detail in the figures' anatomy and expression, reflecting the academic training prevalent in European art institutions of the time. The work invites us to reflect on how societies construct their identities through the selective retelling and reimagining of historical narratives. The choice of representing this particular moment of rescue, moreover, suggests an emphasis on the themes of providence and divine intervention in the making of a nation. To fully understand this sculpture, we can delve into the historical context of late 19th-century Europe. This includes examining the rise of nationalism, the revival of classical themes in art, and the role of institutions in shaping artistic production.