Horse and rider startled by a snake

Unknown

early 16th century · Bronze · European Sculpture and Decorative Arts

As his horse paws the air, a shouting rider raises his spear (now lost) to impale a snake. The statuette’s three figures were cast separately and later assembled to form the group. In a demonstration of virtuosic technique, the weight of the rider and horse balances effortlessly on the twin points of the horse’s rear hooves. The rare subject of this exquisite bronze derives from a precious classical cameo (a gem carved in relief).

Artist

Unknown

Date

early 16th century

Medium

Bronze

Culture

Italian, Venice or Padua

Department

European Sculpture and Decorative Arts

Credit line

Gift of Irwin Untermyer, 1964