Details

Object type

figure

Title

Eve

Artist/Maker

Scipione Tadolini maker

Culture/School

Italian

Materials

marble

Dimensions

overall: 1910 x 1003 x 762 mm

Description

Tadolini was born in Rome, of a family of sculptors. He studied under his father, Adamo (1788–1868), who was one of the celebrated Canova’s principal assistants, and in the Rome Academy. Scipione became a fashionable sculptor of marble figures, supplying collectors across Europe. He copied works by Canova, in whose style he continued to practice until the 1890s, and which was then maintained after his death by his pupils into the 1960s. His sensual modelling was particularly indebted to Canova’s Venuses. He also executed portrait busts and monuments.

Eve, represented naked except for some foliage across her thighs, is seated on a little knoll strewn with flowers; she looks away to the left in some consternation, her right hand raised to her cheek. This composition ranks as one of Tadolini’s most celebrated works. It was conceived in the 1860s in the prime of his career, and features his characteristically softened, sensuous approach to the female form. The original full-size plaster model is in the Palazzo Braschi, Rome, but there are several full-size versions.

Gifted by Dr Douglas White of Overtoun, 1936

Credit Line/Donor

Presented by Dr Douglas White, 1936

ID Number

S.206.a

Location

In storage