Hercules And The Erymanthian Boar, By Giambologna. 19th-century Bronze.
Artist: Giambologna/jean De Bologne (1529-1608)
A rare bronze sculpture based on a work by Giambologna (1529–1608), depicting Hercules carrying the Erymanthian boar.
The original model was created by Giambologna (also known as Jean de Bologne) between 1587 and 1589, at the request of Francesco I de’ Medici to adorn the Tribune of the Uffizi.
A very fine cast from the first half of the 19th century, with its attractive original medal-like patina.
The black marble base is a later addition; there is a chip on one corner.
Height: 44 cm
References:
Ch. Avery, Giambologna 1529–1608. Sculptor to the Medici, London, 1978, pp. 125–127, nos. 78, 79, and 80.
A few rare similar examples that have appeared at auction:
https://www.christies.com/lot/lot-6278987
https://www.debaecque.fr/lot/28251/6290054-italie-xixe-siecle-dapres-giam
The Story of Hercules and the Erymanthian Boar:
The farmers of Mount Erymanthus begged Eurystheus to do something about the enormous boar that was ravaging their fields, devouring their herds, and destroying their crops.
Eurystheus ordered Hercules to capture the boar and bring it to him alive. He hoped this would make Hercules look ridiculous in the eyes of the people, who admired him a little too much for the ruler’s liking.
It took Hercules several days to reach the Erymanthus River. He followed its course upstream to the summit of the mountain, where the farmers knelt before Hercules, imploring him to deliver them from the monster that was ravaging their crops.
It was easy for Hercules to track the boar because it was so heavy that its footprints were clearly imprinted on the ground. Moreover, the trees were gouged and the earth churned up wherever the beast had passed.
He eventually came face to face with the animal. But unable to use his weapons for fear of wounding or killing the beast, Hercules watched as it fled.
He then spent several days exploring Mount Erymanthus and studying the boar’s habits.
After several unsuccessful attempts to capture it, Hercules changed his strategy. He spent several weeks digging ditches, moving rocks, creating dead ends, and widening the trails on Mount Erymanthus.
One winter morning, snow began to fall, blanketing the mountain. Hercules easily spotted the boar’s tracks in the snow and set off in pursuit. At the end of the day, just as Hercules had hoped, the boar turned onto a path he had altered, which led to a small ravine. The boar could no longer escape him. The beast fell into the ravine, but its fall was cushioned by the snow. It was merely knocked unconscious. Hercules had only to tie up the animal’s legs and hoist it onto his back to take it to his cousin Eurystheus
Upon request, we can arrange shipping for you within France and internationally. Shipping terms depend on your location. Contact us to find out the cost and arrange your delivery.
We ensure that special care is taken to provide packaging and protection tailored to your purchases.
Manuel Keepfer & Géraldine Buisson.
INSTAGRAM: @references.d.art
The original model was created by Giambologna (also known as Jean de Bologne) between 1587 and 1589, at the request of Francesco I de’ Medici to adorn the Tribune of the Uffizi.
A very fine cast from the first half of the 19th century, with its attractive original medal-like patina.
The black marble base is a later addition; there is a chip on one corner.
Height: 44 cm
References:
Ch. Avery, Giambologna 1529–1608. Sculptor to the Medici, London, 1978, pp. 125–127, nos. 78, 79, and 80.
A few rare similar examples that have appeared at auction:
https://www.christies.com/lot/lot-6278987
https://www.debaecque.fr/lot/28251/6290054-italie-xixe-siecle-dapres-giam
The Story of Hercules and the Erymanthian Boar:
The farmers of Mount Erymanthus begged Eurystheus to do something about the enormous boar that was ravaging their fields, devouring their herds, and destroying their crops.
Eurystheus ordered Hercules to capture the boar and bring it to him alive. He hoped this would make Hercules look ridiculous in the eyes of the people, who admired him a little too much for the ruler’s liking.
It took Hercules several days to reach the Erymanthus River. He followed its course upstream to the summit of the mountain, where the farmers knelt before Hercules, imploring him to deliver them from the monster that was ravaging their crops.
It was easy for Hercules to track the boar because it was so heavy that its footprints were clearly imprinted on the ground. Moreover, the trees were gouged and the earth churned up wherever the beast had passed.
He eventually came face to face with the animal. But unable to use his weapons for fear of wounding or killing the beast, Hercules watched as it fled.
He then spent several days exploring Mount Erymanthus and studying the boar’s habits.
After several unsuccessful attempts to capture it, Hercules changed his strategy. He spent several weeks digging ditches, moving rocks, creating dead ends, and widening the trails on Mount Erymanthus.
One winter morning, snow began to fall, blanketing the mountain. Hercules easily spotted the boar’s tracks in the snow and set off in pursuit. At the end of the day, just as Hercules had hoped, the boar turned onto a path he had altered, which led to a small ravine. The boar could no longer escape him. The beast fell into the ravine, but its fall was cushioned by the snow. It was merely knocked unconscious. Hercules had only to tie up the animal’s legs and hoist it onto his back to take it to his cousin Eurystheus
Upon request, we can arrange shipping for you within France and internationally. Shipping terms depend on your location. Contact us to find out the cost and arrange your delivery.
We ensure that special care is taken to provide packaging and protection tailored to your purchases.
Manuel Keepfer & Géraldine Buisson.
INSTAGRAM: @references.d.art
3 900 €
Period: 19th century
Style: Rome and Antic Greece
Condition: Good condition
Material: Bronze
Height: 44 cm
Reference (ID): 1827126
Availability: In stock
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