Deianira and Nessus

myminifactory

This is a contemporary limestone abstract sculpture showcasing the seduction of Deianira by Nessus. The central narrative revolves around Deianira's predicament concerning the Tunic of Nessus. A feral centaur named Nessus attempted to abduct or rape Deianira as he was transporting her across the river Euenos, but she was rescued by Heracles, who shot the centaur with a poisoned arrow. As he lay mortally wounded, Nessus convinced Deianira to collect a sample of his blood, assuring her that a mixture of it with olive oil would guarantee that Heracles would never again be unfaithful. Deianira believed his words and retained a small quantity of the potion by her side. Heracles sired illegitimate children throughout Greece and then fell deeply in love with Iole. When Deianira feared that her husband would leave her forever, she applied some of the blood to Heracles' renowned lionskin shirt. Heracles' attendant, Lichas, delivered the shirt to him, and he donned it. The centaur's toxic blood burned Heracles severely, prompting him to hurl himself into a funeral pyre. In desperation, Deianira took her own life by hanging herself or with a sword.