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Rare Antique/Vintage Neoclassical Plaster Relief Sculpture – \"The Abduction of Polyxena\"
For sale is a truly unique, highly detailed neoclassical high-relief gallery sculpture depicting the dramatic Trojan War scene, The Abduction of Polyxena. Unlike standard 1:1 commercial replicas of Pio Fedi’s famous Florence monument, this is a rare, standalone artistic adaptation. It features a compact, high-relief design engineered with an integrated fluted column backdrop, making it perfect for flush display against walls, on a mantel, or as a substantial library bookend.
What the Sculpture RepresentsThis powerful multi-figure composition captures the tragic fall of Troy from Greek mythology:The Greek Warrior: Pyrrhus (son of Achilles), wearing a highly detailed combat helmet, forcefully abducting his prize.
The Captive Princess: Polyxena, a Trojan princess, being carried away.The Grieving Mother: Queen Hecuba of Troy, kneeling in anguish at the warrior\'s feet, desperately clutching his leg.The Fallen Brother: Prince Polites, lying slain on the tiered base of the collapsing palace.
Material & Craftsman Patina
Composition: Solid, high-density academic plaster (not cheap, hollow carnival chalkware). It has excellent physical heft and preserves crisp, fine detailing in the hair, muscles, and drapery.
Finish: Exquisite faux-bronze finish with multi-layered tones. Features raised golden-bronze highlights, rich dark brown recessed shadows, and an intentional greenish-yellow faux verdigris oxidation in the crevices to perfectly simulate antique cast bronze.
Specifications
Height: 14 1/4 inches
Width: 7 inchesDepth: 4 1/4 inches
Weight: 5 lbs, 7.6 oz (Substantial, heavy-duty build)
Estimated Age: Late 19th Century to Early 20th Century (Grand Tour Era)
Rarity & Condition Note
This specific mold configuration—featuring the horizontal sword placement behind the helmet and the integrated architectural column—is exceptionally rare. No identical matching pieces are currently available online, making it a highly collectible find.The piece features a beautiful, authentic aged patina. There is an oval footprint on the lower back where a historical studio paper label used to sit. As expected with genuine antique plaster of this age, there is light surface dust in the deepest crevices and minor white plaster chips along the sharp edges of the base (see photos), which only underscores its vintage authenticity.