Sculpture
Hercules and Antaeus
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Giambologna's work marks a turning point in the development of European sculpture. His bronze of Nessus and Deianira, a celebrated masterpiece, is on display in the case nearby. Renowned for his conveyance of movement, especially in groups of two or more figures, he forms an important link between the Renaissance composure of Michelangelo and the Baroque exuberance of Bernini.
In addition to artistic skill, he developed the technique of producing multiple casts of a single composition. These were produced in his large workshop and disseminated by his pupils and by the Medici Court, which used them as diplomatic gifts throughout Europe. As a result, his work was widely influential across Europe and on subsequent generations, as demonstrated by the bronze sculptures in this room.
In addition to artistic skill, he developed the technique of producing multiple casts of a single composition. These were produced in his large workshop and disseminated by his pupils and by the Medici Court, which used them as diplomatic gifts throughout Europe. As a result, his work was widely influential across Europe and on subsequent generations, as demonstrated by the bronze sculptures in this room.
