Artwork Page for Figure Group of Bacchus and Ariadne

Details / Information for Figure Group of Bacchus and Ariadne

Figure Group of Bacchus and Ariadne

c. 1759

Orléans Porcelain Factory

Culture
Germany, mid-18th century
Medium
soft-paste porcelain
Measurements
Overall: 25.4 x 18.8 x 16.9 cm (10 x 7 3/8 x 6 5/8 in.)
Credit Line
Gift of A. & R. Ball 1946.221
Public Domain
You can copy, modify, and distribute this work, all without asking permission. Learn more about CMA's Open Access Initiative.
Location
216A French and German
Print
?

Did You Know?

This object’s molding and all-white design is characteristic of blanc de chine, the French term referencing the highly prized porcelain produced in the southeastern Fujian province of Dehua, China, known for its pure color and high degree of translucence.

Description

Porcelain figurines decorated the tabletops and living spaces of wealthy Europeans. Though seen in three-dimensions, their inspiration was often drawn from two-dimensional print sources. Swathed in flowers, this figure group depicts Cretan princess Ariadne pouring a drink for the Roman god of wine, Bacchus. Their pose and surrounding scenery was based on an etching by French engraver Jacques Philippe le Bas.
A glossy white, soft-paste porcelain sculpture depicts Bacchus and Ariadne seated beneath a gnarled tree. Ariadne, on our left, rests her hand on flowers and raises a flask. Bacchus, nude and muscular on our right, faces her while extending a cup. Two winged putti perch among branches above. At the base, a leopard crouches near Bacchus's feet amid sculpted vines and grapes, all set upon a textured, flower-strewn mound.

Figure Group of Bacchus and Ariadne

c. 1759

Orléans Porcelain Factory

Germany, mid-18th century

See Also

Visually Similar by AI

Contact Us

The information about this object, including provenance, may not be currently accurate. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please fill out the appropriate request form linked below:

Update or Correct Artwork Information

Imagery or Rights for Non-Open-Access Artworks

Report a Website Issue

Further Questions About This Artwork