Introduction : The Rarity of Bronzes
The Sleeping Eros, a rare Hellenistic bronze from Rhodes, exemplifies the artistic excellence of the 3rd–2nd century B.C. This nearly flawless piece, acquired in 1943, now part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art's collection stands as one of the few surviving large-scale bronzes from this era.
In this article, we'll explore the significance of this Hellenistic masterpiece, trace its journey to the MET, and uncover its connection to Michelangelo’s first art forgery.
Challenges Faced by Ancient Bronze Sculptures
Due to their high value, bronze statues were often melted down throughout history. As a result, well-preserved examples are rare. One notable example is the Colossus of Rhodes. This famous statue, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, disappeared following a catastrophic earthquake. In contrast, the Sleeping Eros is an exceptional survivor. It offers a rare glimpse into ancient Greek artistry and craftsmanship. Learn more about the techniques used by ancient Greeks in creating bronze masterpieces.
Significance of the Sleeping Eros
The Sleeping Eros stands out for its serene and introspective portrayal, differing from earlier dynamic depictions by Classical sculptors. While statues by Phidias and Lysippos (image from the sculpture at the Louvre, below) captured Eros in action, the Sleeping Eros reflects the Hellenistic shift towards naturalism and emotional depth. This statue represents one of the earliest known versions of its type, demonstrating advanced skill in capturing lifelike expressions.
Comparative Insight: The Praying Boy
To appreciate the Sleeping Eros further, consider its relationship to other Hellenistic works. The Praying Boy (Antikensammlungen, Berlin), another example of Hellenistic bronze art, depicts an athlete in a serene posture, reaching out towards the divine in a gesture of devotion. While the Praying Boy likely dates to an earlier period, its detailed portrayal and emotional depth offer a comparative insight into the artistic techniques of the time.
The Legacy of Greek Eros Sculptures
The marble copy from the late 2nd century A.D. depicts the statue of Eros stringing his bow, originally created by the Greek sculptor Lysippos (active between 370 and 305 B.C.). Lysippos designed the original work for a sanctuary at Thespiae, nearly adolescent Eros testing the tautness of his bow. In contrast, the Sleeping Eros, the rare Hellenistic bronze from Rhodes presents a more tranquil and introspective portrayal, reflecting the serene approach typical of the Hellenistic period. Lysippos's version captures Eros’s dual nature—desire can bring both joy and disruption.
Michelangelo's Unexpected Connection
The Sleeping Eros Forgery
In an intriguing twist, the Sleeping Eros statue is linked to Michelangelo’s early forgery attempt. In his quest for recognition, Michelangelo crafted a forgery of the Sleeping Eros statue in 1496, meticulously aging it to imitate the appearance of an ancient artifact and thereby deceive experts of the time. The forgery was discovered and destroyed, highlighting Michelangelo's talent, audacity and likely remorse.
Conclusion
The Sleeping Eros statue showcases the artistic brilliance of ancient Greece and the many challenges bronze sculptures have faced over time. These challenges include destruction and melting. Its display at the MET in New York provides a unique chance for visitors to admire this rare and significant artifact up close. Furthermore, the intriguing link between the Sleeping Eros and Michelangelo’s forgery scandal adds a captivating layer of intrigue, enhancing the statue’s historical and cultural value. It should explain why it's Eros you'll see on my Seen at the MET instagram account.
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