Mid-Century Neo-Classical Nude Frenzied Maenad High-Relief Plaque, 1980s

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Description

A powerful mid-century architectural homage to classical antiquity, capturing the fluid energy and dark romanticism of the neo-attic style. Measuring … Read more A powerful mid-century architectural homage to classical antiquity, capturing the fluid energy and dark romanticism of the neo-attic style. Measuring 41 x 20 cm, this substantial high-relief wall plaque replicates one of the most famous classical motifs of the ancient world: the frenzied maenad (type 25), after the lost 5th-century bce greek masterworks by callimachus.

the figure, a female devotee of dionysus (bacchus), is depicted in a state of ecstatic, ritualistic dance. In her right hand, raised above her head, she holds a sacrificial dagger, while her left hand grips the severed hindquarters of a sacrificed kid (goat). Her intricately carved, billowing drapery slips away to expose her torso, masterfully conveying the wild, hypnotic motion of the dionysian mystery cults.

executed in a heavy polymer resin with a deeply tactile, honed faux-stone finish, the plaque beautifully emulates the weathered ivory patina and raw edges of an excavated ancient marble fragment. Equal parts historical artifact and compelling design statement, this elongated relief serves as an intellectually rich, visually commanding focal piece for a sophisticated contemporary library, study, or gallery wall.

a grand tour style, antique-inspired architectural fragment this piece is attributed to the mentioned designer/maker. It has no attribution mark and no
official proof of authenticity,
however it is well documented in design history. I take full responsibility for any authenticity



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