Flora

myminifactory

A full-length marble statue of Flora, goddess of Spring and flowers, is depicted as a young woman with her upper body naked, adorned by a garland of flowers in her hair and holding an abundance of flower heads wrapped in drapery across her waist. The drapery unfurls in folds to either side, suggesting movement forward. Initially created by Tenerani in 1835 based on an ancient statue from the Uffizi in Florence, the first marble example was produced for Grand Duke Alexander of Russia in 1840 and is now housed at the Hermitage Museum in St Petersburg. The artist experimented with various sketches, plaster versions, and multiple marble interpretations for esteemed collectors, as well as collaborating with numerous artists on film projects. Notable references are drawn from classic models like those found at the Uffizi's Hora and the Casino Ludovisi, as well as the works of Antonio Canova and Bertel Thorvaldsen. Flora's uncovered bust is depicted moving lightly, with her face tilted forward. The garment draped across her belly cradles flowers of diverse species, while the lightweight fabric clings to her legs, creating an effect of strong chiaroscuro and movement as the wind billows the fabric. Tenerani, a prominent figure in 19th-century sculpture, arrived in Rome in 1814 after winning the Accademia di Carrara's prestigious award and went on to become a respected member of the Accademia di San Luca, where he held various positions, including academician since 1823, vice president from 1852, and chairman four years later. He was also actively involved in teaching at this esteemed institution.