May 6, 2021 Author: Admin

Famous Marble Statues You Should Check Out

Marble Sculpting is the oldest form of art. It is said to have come into existence even before paintings and other structures. Sculptures have played a key role in understanding culture and society. 

It stands as an excellent medium of story-telling, creating a much higher personal connection with the masses. 

 

academia.org
ⓒ Image credits: academia.org

 

One of the biggest reasons sculpting has gained popularity is how engaging it can be to viewers. 

The tools and techniques used to sculpt are a fascinating process to many. And so, this three-dimensional art form has taken over the world, making it a “monumental” achievement. 

Today, let’s take a virtual look at the seven most popular Marble Statues that have made it big in the world of art. 

*Warning: Beautiful art ahead, please be ready to get mesmerized*

 

1. Laocoon And His Sons

Displayed at the Vatican, this sculpture is one of the most popular ones to be found.

It depicts the Trojan priest Laocoon together with his sons, and they appear to be attacked by serpents from the sea sent by a God. 

 

IR Stone
ⓒ Photo: IR Stone via Shutterstock

 

In this action-packed statue, the priest and his two sons try to free themselves from the serpents, representing themes like human agony and suffering. 

The sculpture has been admired for its realism and variety of expressions portrayed.  

Hold up! 

Before you get back to scrolling ahead, don’t forget to take a look at our Marble Statues collection. And if you find something you’d like, reach out to us for customizations and more!

 

2. Nike of Samothrace

An iconic example of a Hellenistic Greek statue, Nike of Samothrace, is to look out for.

Here, the statue is a depiction of the Greek Goddess of Victory, who is seen graciously stepping forward on the head of a ship leading troops to success.

 

brewminate
ⓒ www.brewminate.com

 

The sculpture was created to celebrate a successful sea battle. 

It indeed is empowering to look at if you ask us!

 

3. Pieta 

Pieta or Pity, a sculpture by Michelangelo the great, was created during the Renaissance. This statue is inspired by emotion, faith and imitation, showcasing Virgin Mary and Jesus Christ.

Fun Fact: Michelangelo carved it from a single slab of Carrara Marble. 

 

mary-holding-jesus
Ⓒ Pinterest

 

In the statue, Mary is said to be holding Jesus by her lap after the crucifixion. She is seen feeling heavily sorrowful and in contemplation of his death.

There has been a lot of controversy around the idea of Mary portrayed as a youthful mother during the death of Jesus.

 

4. Psyche Revived By Cupid’s Kiss

Next on the list is Antonio Canova’s Psyche Revived By Cupid’s Kiss, depicting two mythological lovers at a moment of high emotion.

Here, God Cupid is ecstatic and in love immediately after awakening Psyche with a kiss.

Psyche is seen reaching up towards Cupid as he holds her with all the support. They seem to be sharing great chemistry!

 

statue-angel
ⓒ Pinterest

 

Don’t mind us, because we seem to have fallen in love with this statue! 

 

5. Aphrodite of Milos

Carved by Alexandros of Antioch, Aphrodite of Milos is amongst the most notable artworks of Ancient Greece. 

The statue is said to represent Aphrodite, the Goddess of beauty and love. She was famous for her missing arms and was considered the epitome of female charm.

 

theworldismyplayground.org
ⓒ theworldismyplayground.org

 

Interestingly, some scholars believe that the statue could also represent Amphitrite, the God of the sea.

 

6. The Greek Slave

The Greek Slave by Hiram Powers is arguably one of the best-known American works. 

This sculpture illustrates a nude female bound to chains, with a small cross on it, while the setting being a slave market. The statue surrounded the themes of slavery and bondage. Interesting, isn’t it?

 

Hiram Powers
ⓒ Hiram Powers, The Greek Slave, 1847. Marble. Newark Museum, Newark.

 

Although it’s said to represent the Greek War of Independence, it was considered scandalous by many as it became sort of a social commentary of slavery in the United States.

 

7. Discobolus

Discobolus by Myron was produced at the start of the Classical Period and was considered an iconic image for the Olympic games. 

It portrays a physically gorgeous youthful male athlete throwing a discus. Full of athletic energy, the discus thrower is about to release his throw with sheer intelligence.

 

The Trustees of the British Museum
ⓒ The Trustees of the British Museum

 

The sculpture is said to capture the Greek ideals of proportion, harmony, rhythm and balance. It skillfully conveys movement and action in a single pose, leaving the viewer in awe. 

Statues indeed are timeless when it comes to art. They are symbolic representations of fixed ideas from the past, proving to be more than objects of admiration.