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American School Art Deco Bronze Sculpture “Hercules & The Hydra” ca. 1940s

About the Item

ART DECO United States, circa 1940s Hercules and the Lernean Hydra Patinated bronze unsigned designed as a fountain Item # 410TUG09E Stark, minimal and thoroughly modernist, this very fine and imposing sculpture captures the very essence of Hercules in his labors. His body is ensnared and entwined with the six-headed Lernean Hydra, its coiled body wrapped around his powerful legs and coiled around his arms where Hercules grasps them by the neck. Everything about the hero is modeled larger than life, a showcase of his raw and almost unbridled power. Muscles are strained and taut as his expression remains mechanical and undaunted. This model is perhaps unique, as we have found no counterparts to it. It was cleverly designed with an internal tube system that allows it to operate as a fountain: water shoots from the six mouths of the hydra and the eight mouths of sea creatures raising the octagonal base with its beveled edge. The loose modeling and highly impressionistic surface are dramatic and replete with texture, catching and reflecing light from every direction. An extraordinary example. Measurements: 31 3/4" H x 8 1/8" base diameter Condition Report: Light wear to the original patina, including a few spots of the heads of the Hydra and raised elements here and there. Carefully cleaned and all oxidization carefully deactivated before sealing in a conservator's grade of wax. Trace verdigris and discoloration. Ready to place. About silla antiques & art Established in 2009, we have available in our 9000 square foot brick-and-mortar gallery an ever-changing selection of carefully curated and catalogued furniture, decorative arts, paintings, sculpture and estate jewelry. Our company has long specialized in sculpture circa 1860 through 1930 and as such the gallery always has a very large collection of exceptional European and American sculpture available on display. The gallery is located at 117 W Burd Street in Shippensburg, Pennsylvania and is open by appointment only. We welcome your visit and would love to meet with you at the shop. For clients located outside of the area, we are always available to discuss items by video conferencing or by phone.
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 31.75 in (80.65 cm)Width: 8.13 in (20.66 cm)Depth: 8.13 in (20.66 cm)
  • Style:
    Art Deco (Of the Period)
  • Materials and Techniques:
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    1940
  • Condition:
  • Seller Location:
    Shippensburg, PA
  • Reference Number:
    Seller: 410TUG09E1stDibs: LU1059042366122

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