STATUE OF THE SLEEPING ARIADNE: SLEEPING BEAUTY
Ariadne, a Cretan princess from Greek mythology, rests upon a shore within a reclining position her extended legs slightly crossed, her head pillowed on her left arm, and her right arm thrown over her head. Her long, flowing chiton seems to relax, as well, as it drapes over her graceful body and leaves part of her breast uncovered. The only company residing alongside her, a bird holds onto the tail of a lizard alongside a snail and another lizard. Adorning the side of the shoreline, these animals contrast Ariadne’s figure as they remain carved in relief, rather than in-the-round.
Combining a variety of different techniques and ideas, the Statue of the Sleeping Ariadne grants pleasure to the eye as one takes in the assortment of artistic elements. Carved in-the-round, Ariadne contrasts against the shallow animals carved in relief on the side of the sculpture and adding depth and definition to the piece, Araidne’s garments flow over her body, carved within a wet-T-shirt technique. Though Roman, the work relays many Greek qualities. Referenced from a similar Greek sculpture and inspired from a Greek myth, the piece does not originate from an original style or idea. Even Ariadne’s face seems inspired by Late Classical Greek style as her lips seem to pout with fullness and her cheeks soften and round her face giving a sense of innocence.
Length: 18.5cm
Height: 14cm
Weight: 620gr
