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Farnese Bull

£273,500.00

Delivery time: 6 months. Free delivery in England, Scotland & Wales (except islands)
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Buy Farnese bull sculpture group as a recast

The Farnese Bull is a colossal Roman marble copy of a Hellenistic bronze sculpture group. It is the largest single sculpture from antiquity discovered to date – carved from a single block of marble.

 

The artwork was discovered in 1546 in the Roman Baths of Caracalla and entered the sculpture collection of the Palazzo Farnese. The sculpture is dated to 222-235 AD. The so-called Hercules Farnese and the so-called Latin Hercules were also found in the same place.

 

The lost ancient Greek bronze original is mentioned by Pliny the Elder. It was probably a work by the Rhodian artist Apollonius of Tralles and his brother Tauriscus from the end of the 2nd century B.C. It was later brought from Rhodes to Rome and became part of the art and sculpture collection of the Roman politician Asinius Pollio.

Together with the other Farnese antiquities, the sculpture has been in the Museo Archeologico Nazionale in Naples since 1826. The sculpture was restored several times, in particular by Michelangelo. He wanted to use it for a fountain in the Palazzo Farnese. The Roman marble sculpture was carved from a block of marble measuring 3.66 m x 2.75 m and weighs 21.8 tonnes in its current form.

 

The sculptural group depicts the extensive, complex myth of the punishment of Dirke from a Theban legend. The short version is that Dirke was tied to a wild bull by Zethus and Amphion, the sons of a certain Antiope. They did this to punish her for mistreating her mother Antiope. The bull dragged Dirke to death and from her blood sprang the so-called Thebian Fountain, which was named after her.

 

You can buy this colossal Roman marble sculpture group as a replica in our online shop. This is a replica of the Hellenistic bronze original. The marble or bronze replica is based on the 3D scan of the original in Naples. Buy the sculpture group in museum quality with individualisation in the base.

Description

Antique sculpture group, cast bronze in museum quality

The sculpture is produced as a bronze casting using the traditional lost wax technique. The negative mould required for this is based on a 3D scan of the original in Naples.

 

Cast marble & marble sculpture from the sculptor

In addition to classic bronze casting, we also offer two other moulds for the statues shown here. Marble casting from powdered genuine white marble. And the new moulding of the statue by sculptors from a single block of white marble. If such a Werkform comes into consideration for you, please do not hesitate to contact us. We look forward to receiving your e-mail or phone call.

 

Authentic Reproductions of Ancient Bronze Statuary: Classical Weathered Patina and New Insights into the Original Antique Patina

We are pleased to offer two exceptional patination options for bronze statues, each rooted in historical authenticity. The first is the classical patina, which beautifully captures the natural weathering of bronze over centuries. This finish has been the preferred choice among connoisseurs ever since the rediscovery of monumental bronzes from antiquity.

 

However, recent scientific research—most notably a 2022 study of a major ancient bronze, the renowned Charioteer of Delphi—has provided compelling evidence that such works were originally polished in antiquity. These statues likely exhibited a warm, golden lustre, the result of bronze alloys with approximately 10% tin content and meticulous surface treatment.

In light of these findings, we now offer the option of a meticulously reconstructed, polished surface that closely approximates the statues’ supposed original appearance. This allows you to choose between the time-honoured aged patina or a radiant finish evocative of how these masterpieces may once have appeared to visitors at sanctuaries such as Delphi, Olympia, or Delos. Click here for further detailed information regarding this patination process.

 

Individualisation of the statue

Each statue cast by us is engraved in the base with a serial number, date of manufacture and our company logo. The base is also engraved with your name, a lettering, the occasion of production, your own company logo or additional engraving as required.

Your own personal legacy with the purchase of a bronze or marble replica cast

Our life-size cast bronze or cast marble replicas are therefore not only artistic replicas, but also timeless reminders that will preserve your legacy for generations to come. By engraving your name, the date and the occasion on the base, this statue becomes an everlasting symbol of your most personal life achievement, your significance in this world and your work there.

 

Memory cast in bronze in the radiant light of antiquity

Ancient Greek bronze statues and their masterfully crafted Roman marble replicas were the sensual and visual mirror of these two advanced civilisations for over a millennium. After their rediscovery during the Renaissance, these statues once again became world-famous and symbolised the emergence of modernity.

 

In keeping with the ancient traditions of Delphi and Rome, the statue made for you and with your name as the donor will forever be a reminder of your personality and achievements.

 

Locations for the installation of ancient statues & list of parks with ancient sculptures

In exceptionally designed gardens and parks, alongside high horticultural artistry and exceptionally beautiful design, the use of top-notch furnishings often shines. Whether it’s furniture or statues and sculptures. Now original antique statues are not or very rarely available for sale. Since their rediscovery in the Renaissance, costly replicas have such been made for castles, their parks, and concurrently for the mansions of the bourgeoisie who have attained great wealth. During this time, a canon for the placement and positioning of these artworks formed and developed into modern times. In our online shop, you’ll find an overview of particularly beautiful locations for ancient statues. Additionally, we provide you with an overview of some publicly accessible gardens and parks, each boasting an impressive collection of ancient sculptures, along with specific details on where each statue can be seen.

 

Product details

Farnese Bull
Item No.S21
MaterialBronze cast
dimension (height x width x depth)370 cm x 295 cm x 300 cm
What you receiveSingle piece, Bronze cast. The exact design details, measurements and weight as well as the structure and colour of the Bronze cast may vary.
DeliveryDelivered using our own van
Delivery ChargeFree delivery in England and Wales (except islands) and to a few EU countries. Click here for details.
Price incl. VAT£273,500.00