STATUES OF THE NIOBID GROUP IN FLORENCE: NIOBE AND HER YOUNGEST DAUGHTER
Artist August Gerber (cast maker) Köln
Place of production August Gerber, Köln
Date early 20th century (plaster cast); early Imperial period (original)
Object type plaster cast Medium, technique plaster
Dimensions 227 x 156 x 90 cm Inventory number Ag.249
Collection Classical Antiquites - Plaster casts
On view Star Fortress (Komárom), Famous Sculptures and their Ancient Reception: Niobe and her Children, Gallery VIII
These statues were found in Rome, at the foot of the Esquiline Hill. In the early Imperial Period there were huge parks in this area. We do not know where and how these statues were erected. They may have decorated a temple pediment, or, what is more likely, they were placed in a free composition (for example on a smaller hill). The statues show Niobe and the slaughter of her children with compassion and an attention to detail. One of them is already lifeless, others are still fleeing. The central figure of the group is Niobe, who is desperately trying to shield her smallest daughter with her own body.
References
Hekler, Antal, Az antik gipszgyüjtemény I-II., Budapest, 1919-1920, 1923, no. no. 328.
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