Hercules Farnese In Alabaster Grand Tour

The Farnese Hercules, carved in alabaster after the ancient marble signed Glycon in the 3rd century, is actually an enlarged version of a bronze by Lysippos dating from the 4th century BC, which was melted down during the Siege of Constantinople by the Crusaders in 1204. Glycon's marble was rediscovered during excavations in Rome in 1546. It was then acquired by Alessandro Farnese (Pope Paul III) and placed in the Palazzo Farnese in Rome, before being moved to Naples in the 18th century. From antiquity, and ever since its rediscovery, this statue has fascinated those who have seen it, not only for its power but also for the quality and finesse of its details. Our Hercules, a Grand Tour object, embodies this power and attention to detail, both in the musculature and in the veins finely rendered in alabaster. This major work of ancient art aroused such enthusiasm that it was copied by the most prestigious sculptors to adorn majestic residences, notably Vaux-le-Vicomte, and some of these copies are preserved in the greatest international museums, including the Louvre.
Good condition, missing two fingertips on the left hand and the right hand has been previously reattached (visible in the photos). Shipping costs within mainland France: €20. For other destinations, please contact us for a precise shipping quote.