Perseus Arming

Founder Fonderia Nelli Italian
ca. 1881
On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 516
On loan to The Met
This work of art is currently on loan to the museum.
TAKING FLIGHT

This statuette shows the transformational moment when the demigod Perseus attains his winged sandals, cap of invisibility, and lethal sword. Twisting to see the wing attached to his right ankle, he beholds his newfound power. Inspired by Italian Renaissance sculpture, Sir Alfred Gilbert created this bronze in Rome. Its debut in London spurred the revival of bronze casting in England. The combination of naturalism and ideal beauty imparts the hero’s status as both man and god.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Perseus Arming
  • Artist: Sir Alfred Gilbert (British, London 1854–1934 London)
  • Founder: Fonderia Nelli
  • Date: ca. 1881
  • Culture: British, London
  • Medium: Bronze
  • Dimensions: Height: 26 15/16 in. (68.5 cm)
  • Classification: Sculpture-Bronze
  • Credit Line: On loan from Richard Lockwood Chilton, Jr.
  • Object Number: L.2022.37
  • Curatorial Department: European Sculpture and Decorative Arts