Daedalus and Icarus 1779

Antonio Canova's marble sculpture "Daedalus and Icarus," created in 1779, depicts the Greek myth of the inventor Daedalus and his son Icarus. The sculpture shows Daedalus, an aging and weathered figure, grasping Icarus's arm as the young boy prepares for his ill-fated flight with wings of feathers and wax. The sculpture is notable for its Neoclassical style, evident in the idealized anatomy, balanced composition, and restrained emotion. The work reflects the prevailing artistic trends of the late 18th century, where a renewed interest in classical Greek and Roman art influenced the artistic landscape.