Tarentum, modern days Taranto, was one of the largest Greek colonies in South Italy, playing a pivotal role in the trade between Greece and Italy. According to the myth, the city was founded by the Greek hero Taras (Τάρας). After being shipwrecked, his father Poseidon sent him a dolphin to save him from drowning. Taras rode the animal to traverse the sea and, once reached the shore, he founded a new city which he named after himself. Later known as Tarentum, the colony was originally founded by Sparta in the 8th century BC.
Tarentine Limestone Relief Fragment of a Crouching Man
$2,176.91
A Tarentine limestone fragment moulded in relief and portraying a nude young man, shown leaning on a rocky surface. The use of limestone, a softer but less transparent material than marble, resulted in much importance given to chiaroscuro and linear effects. Typically seen in Tarentine sculpture, a strong sense for chiaroscuro effects is here evident in the treatment of human anatomy. The man’s body is especially muscular and curvilinear, allowing a dynamic interplay of light and shadows. His leg muscles are tensed and his foot is bent, as he leans forward and holds his bodyweight on with the left hand.
The piece is mounted on a custom-made stand. The measurements provided below are inclusive of the stand, the fragment itself measures: L 20.6cm x W 8.5cm x H 13cm.
N.B. This item will require additional postage charges after checkout due to weight and size.
Provenance: From the Ingrid McAlpine collection, 1939-2018, London and Epsom.
Condition: Fine condition.
In stock
| Weight | 2700 g |
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| Dimensions | L 16.5 x W 15.3 x H 17.5 cm |
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