The Sleep Of Endymion After Canova (1757-1822)

After Antonio Canova (1757-1822)
The Sleep of Endymion
XIXth
Bronze with brown patina
Founder's mark "De Braux Fr"
12.5 x 25,5 cm

In Greek mythology, Endymion was a handsome shepherd from Asia Minor, the earthly lover of the Moon goddess Selene, who kissed her to sleep every night. She begged the god Zeus to grant her eternal life, so that she could embrace him forever. Zeus granted her wish and plunged Endymion into eternal sleep.

In May 1819, on his first trip to Rome, the 6th Duke of Devonshire visited the studio of the most famous sculptor of the time, Antonio Canova. Amazed by what he saw, he commissioned a marble statue from the artist, leaving it to the sculptor to determine size and subject. The marble block was rough-cut in 1822 and sent to London the following year. The marble caused a sensation when it was first exhibited at Devonshire House. The 6th Duke, who considered it his greatest sculptural treasure, also commissioned a large bronze copy from the sculptor Francis Chantrey, which can be seen outside the Orangery store.
The marble is today preserved at Chatsworth House in Derbyshire, England.