hermes cu dionysos copil | Hermes of praxiteles

The sculpture known as "Hermes Cu Dionysos Copil" (Hermes with the Infant Dionysus) is one of the most celebrated and debated works of ancient Greek art. It embodies the epitome of classical beauty, grace, and the inherent humanism that defined Greek sculpture at its peak. While traditionally attributed to the renowned sculptor Praxiteles, questions regarding its authorship, date, and original context continue to fuel scholarly discussion and captivate art enthusiasts worldwide. This article delves into the intricacies of the statue, exploring its historical background, artistic significance, the debates surrounding its attribution, and its enduring legacy.

The Subject: Hermes, Dionysus, and the Mythological Context

The sculpture depicts Hermes, the swift-footed messenger god of Olympus, cradling the infant Dionysus, the god of wine, fertility, theatre, and religious ecstasy. The scene references a specific moment in Dionysus's early life, a period shrouded in myth and significant for shaping the god's multifaceted character.

According to the mythological narrative, Dionysus was born from the thigh of Zeus after his mother, Semele, a mortal princess, was tricked by the jealous Hera into demanding that Zeus reveal his true divine form. Unable to withstand the full power of Zeus's thunderbolts, Semele perished. Zeus rescued the premature Dionysus, sewing him into his thigh until he was ready to be born.

Following his birth, Dionysus was entrusted to the care of various protectors to shield him from Hera's continued wrath. Hermes, as the trusted messenger and guide, was tasked with delivering the infant Dionysus to the nymphs of Nysa (the specific location varies depending on the source), who would raise him in secret. This journey and the subsequent nurturing of Dionysus in a hidden, idyllic setting are the moments likely captured in the sculpture.

The sculpture, therefore, represents more than just a tender scene of a god holding a child. It symbolizes the protection of Dionysus, the safeguarding of his nascent divinity, and the crucial role Hermes played in ensuring the future of a god whose influence would deeply impact Greek culture and religion. The contrast between the mature, athletic Hermes and the vulnerable infant Dionysus highlights the protective nature of the relationship and the weight of responsibility placed upon Hermes.

Description of the Sculpture: Form, Style, and Material

The "Hermes Cu Dionysos Copil" is sculpted from Parian marble, a highly prized material known for its fine grain and luminous quality. The statue stands approximately 2.1 meters (6.9 feet) tall, a commanding presence that would have dominated its original setting.

Hermes is depicted as a youthful, athletic figure, his body exhibiting the idealized proportions and harmonious balance characteristic of classical Greek sculpture. His weight is shifted onto his right leg, creating a subtle contrapposto stance, a hallmark of Greek art that imparts a sense of naturalism and movement to the figure. The gentle S-curve of his spine and the relaxed posture of his left arm contribute to the overall sense of grace and ease.

The treatment of Hermes's flesh is particularly noteworthy. The sculptor masterfully rendered the smooth, supple texture of the skin, conveying a sense of lifelike vitality. The subtle modeling of the muscles and the delicate rendering of the drapery further enhance the realism of the figure.

The infant Dionysus is depicted as a chubby, playful child, reaching towards a now-missing object, likely a bunch of grapes. The sculptor captured the innocence and vulnerability of the baby, contrasting sharply with the mature and composed demeanor of Hermes. The interaction between the two figures, though subtle, is palpable, suggesting a connection and a sense of affection.

The surface of the statue is highly polished, giving it a luminous sheen that accentuates the play of light and shadow across the forms. This meticulous attention to detail and the exquisite craftsmanship are hallmarks of the high classical period of Greek sculpture.

Attribution and Dating: The Praxiteles Questionhermes cu dionysos copil

The "Hermes Cu Dionysos Copil" was discovered in 1877 during excavations at the Temple of Hera in Olympia, Greece. Its discovery caused a sensation, as it was initially hailed as an original work by Praxiteles, one of the most celebrated sculptors of the 4th century BC. This attribution was based primarily on the description of a statue of Hermes holding Dionysus written by the Greek travel writer Pausanias in the 2nd century AD, who visited the Temple of Hera and mentioned seeing such a statue.

However, the attribution to Praxiteles has been the subject of intense debate among art historians. Several factors have cast doubt on the authenticity of the statue as an original work by the master:

* Stylistic Considerations: While the sculpture exhibits many of the stylistic characteristics associated with Praxiteles, such as the soft modeling of the flesh and the graceful pose, some scholars argue that it lacks the subtlety and refinement found in other works attributed to him. The treatment of the hair, for instance, is considered by some to be less detailed and nuanced than what one would expect from Praxiteles.

* Material Analysis: The Parian marble used for the statue is of a slightly different quality than the marble typically used by Praxiteles. While this is not conclusive evidence, it raises questions about the statue's origin and date.