Paris

Antico (Pier Jacopo Alari Bonacolsi)

ca. 1518–1524 · Bronze, partially fire-gilt, silver inlay · European Sculpture and Decorative Arts

In a legendary contest over divine beauty the Trojan prince, Paris judged Venus the winner. Paris is shown contemplating his choice as he holds the golden apple to be awarded to the goddess as her trophy. The figure’s immaculate nudity, gilded hair, and silver eyes vividly evoke the splendor of classical bronze statuettes. The creator of this work was called Antico ("One of the ancients") by his Renaissance contemporaries in recognition of his ability to rival the sculptures of antiquity.

Artist

Antico (Pier Jacopo Alari Bonacolsi)

Date

ca. 1518–1524

Medium

Bronze, partially fire-gilt, silver inlay

Culture

Italian, Mantua

Department

European Sculpture and Decorative Arts

Credit line

Edith Perry Chapman Fund, 1955