Dancer at The State Hermitage Museum, St Petersburg

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Canova made dance one of his preferred subjects. He was captivated by how movement affects sculptural form and many works, including reliefs and paintings, explore dance as a theme. Three statues depict dancers in different poses; the most successful is now housed at the Hermitage. The statue has been known by several names, with Canova himself referring to it as "Erato, Muse of Love's Dance" in one letter (he initially planned to add a faun playing a flute). Holding her long dress outstretched, the young woman glides effortlessly into her dance. Rhythmic movement is conveyed through the gentle twist of her torso, steps, hand placement and head turn, making it clear she is dancing. However, the strict yet light line of her silhouette creates balance, demonstrating Canova's dedication to Classical ideals. He skillfully captures the dancer's robe transparency and playful locks crowned with a floral garland. Contemporaries were impressed by the sculpture's innovative quality. Scholars have even proposed that Canova's dance figures influenced choreography in the 19th century.