A small Parian figure of Ariadne and the Panther

A good small Parian figure of Ariadne and the Panther from the original life-sized marble (1812) by the Baden-Württemberg sculptor Johann Heinrich von Dannecker (1758 – 1841). The original is now in the Liebieghaus, Frankfurt. John Bell produced a larger model for Minton, and other manufacturers also made copies of this popular group.  This figure is unmarked, of unknown manufacture, and of slightly different proportions compared with the well-known Minton version. It dates from the second half of the 19^th century. 

The figure shows Ariadne, who helped Theseus escape the Cretan Labyrinth, as the bride of Bacchus after she was abandoned by Theseus on the island of Naxos.

Dannecker’s figure was reproduced in full sized marble and bronze as well as in the smaller ceramic forms.

The Minton version is illustrated in the Parian Phenomenon p 64, Fig 80.

Height: 27cm (10½”)

Condition: Excellent with just a few small firing lines.