Torso of Hercules with Leontea - Neoclassical Style - Marble - First half 20th century

This large sculpture conveys a particular pathos to the viewer. The demigod Hercules, son of Zeus, represented in movement, seems to come to life just by looking at the grimace on his face. We see him here, wrapped in the skin of the Nemean lion, killed in the first of his twelve memorable labours, used as a trophy. The archaeological style artefact, carved in statuary marble with an abundance of details, is a beautiful example of neoclassical art. The imposing torso immediately catches the eye, no matter where you place it. (This was an admirable purchase of my grandfather Gervasio, born in 1887, who started our collection at a young age) .