Ganymede and the Eagle by Antonio Montauti

Ganymede and the Eagle c. 1710

bronze, sculpture

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sculpture

human figure

bronze

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male figure

unrealistic statue

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sculpture

italy

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statue

Antonio Montauti's bronze sculpture, "Ganymede and the Eagle" (c. 1710), depicts the mythological scene of the young Trojan prince Ganymede being carried off by Zeus, disguised as an eagle, to become the cupbearer of the gods. The realistic, sculpted details of the eagle's feathers and Ganymede's youthful form showcase Montauti's mastery of the Baroque style, prevalent during the 17th and 18th centuries. The dramatic composition and emotive facial expressions further enhance the narrative, capturing the moment of Ganymede's abduction. This captivating sculpture is a testament to Montauti's talent and the enduring appeal of classical mythology in art.

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minneapolisinstituteofart about 1 year ago

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Captivated by the beauty of the shepherd Ganymede, Zeus transformed himself into an eagle and abducted the youth, whom he then installed as cupbearer to the gods on Mount Olympus for eternity. In most representations, the mortal shepherd boy is shown overpowered by the formidable eagle, but here Ganymede stands upright and engages with the eagle through a gesture of affection and familiarity. This friendly pairing suggests that Ganymede’s ascent to Mount Olympus was not so much an abduction but a joyful transcendence from the earthly realm to the divine.