Bronze, Jupiter And Ganymede, 20th Century

A contrapposto depiction of Ganymede with an eagle at his side, symbolizing Jupiter-Zeus.

Beautiful patina.
Inscription 'AD' visible on the reverse.
Unsigned.

Late 19th/early 20th century.
Good overall condition.

Dimensions:
Height: 14 cm
Width: 6.3 cm
Depth: 5.3 cm.

Ganymede is the son of Tros, the founder of Troy, and the nymph Callirhoe. While tending his father's flock, he is abducted by Zeus, who deems him the most beautiful of mortals. To do so, Zeus transforms himself into an eagle and carries him to Mount Olympus. Ganymede becomes the cupbearer of the gods, replacing Hebe, daughter of Hera: his duty is to provide the gods with the ambrosia and nectar that grant them immortality. But Zeus ignored the jealousy of his wife Hera, who demanded that Ganymede be sent back to mortals. Zeus then decided to make him a constellation, Aquarius, which he placed right next to Aquila.