Dwarf as Galatea (one of a pair) 1770

Walter Pompe's "Dwarf as Galatea" is a charming 18th-century sculpture depicting a dwarf woman in elaborate dress, likely intended as a humorous caricature. The figure, with a wide, somewhat mischievous grin, is depicted holding up a section of her gown, highlighting the intricate details of her clothing. The inscription on the base, "GALATHEA," suggests a reference to the mythological figure known for her beauty. This playful and stylized representation, created using a combination of realism and exaggeration, offers a glimpse into the social and artistic preferences of the time.