Chryses in The Louvre, Paris

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This terracotta sculpture by Michel-Ange Slodtz (Paris, 1705 - Paris, 1764) is a masterpiece titled Chryses. The bust alongside its counterpart representing Iphigenia was likely part of the impressive collection of Ange Laurent Lalive de Jully, a renowned art enthusiast and expert in fine antiques. The marble version, dating back to 1740, was commissioned by Rome for a collector in Lyon at the Academy of Lyon. In ancient Greek mythology, Chryses was a powerful priest of Apollo at Chryse, near the famous city of Troy. According to Eustathius of Thessalonica, Chryses and Briseus were brothers, sons of Ardys, a man whose life remains shrouded in mystery. During the brutal Trojan War, Agamemnon took Chryseis from Moesia as a war prize, refusing to return her when Chryses attempted to ransom her. Chryses prayed to Apollo, and he sent a devastating plague sweeping through the Greek armies, forcing Agamemnon to give Chryseis back. The significance of Agamemnon's actions lies not in his kidnapping of Chryseis, which was common practice in ancient Greece, but in his refusal to release her upon her father's request. Chryses, with Orestes by his side, was also responsible for the death of Thoas, who met his demise after discovering that the son of Chryseis, known as "younger Chryses," was also Agamemnon's child. After killing Thoas, Chryses headed to Mycenae. This object is part of a groundbreaking initiative called Scan The World, which aims to create a digital archive of fully 3D printable sculptures and artworks from around the globe for public access free of charge. Scan The World is an open-source community effort that invites contributions from anyone interested in sharing their unique items with the world. If you have interesting objects you'd like to contribute, email stw@myminifactory.com to learn how you can participate.