Jason

myminifactory

This sculpture stands as a testament to Thorvaldsen's groundbreaking work. Jason began taking shape in Rome in 1802, its completion in plaster commissioned by Thomas Hope, a wealthy English patron of the arts, in 1803 marble; however, it wasn't delivered until 25 years later. This masterpiece is a reflection of Thorvaldsen's prowess as an artist. Jason started forming in Rome in 1802, finished in plaster and commissioned in marble by Thomas Hope, a rich English patron of the arts, in 1803; but only finally arrived after 25 long years. Jason was a young Greek prince who saw his wicked uncle Pelias seize power from his father King Aison unjustly. To regain his rightful place on the throne, Jason had to obtain the Golden Fleece, which a formidable dragon fiercely guarded in a distant land. Undaunted by the dangers that lay ahead, Jason and his comrades bravely set sail to claim it; after overcoming numerous challenges, they finally found the Fleece, and this sculpture captures the moment when Jason proudly carries it draped over his arm as he prepares to board the ship that will return him to his homeland. The Golden Fleece held magical powers, guaranteeing fertility and wealth to any land that possessed it – by obtaining it, Jason proved himself to be a true leader, worthy of ruling his land with wisdom and justice. This fundamental democratic principle asserts that an individual's station in society is not defined by inherited privileges but by their inherent abilities. As everyone knows, ancient Greece was the birthplace of democracy, and Thorvaldsen's Jason emerged onto the artistic scene at a time when pro-democracy sentiments were gaining momentum across Europe. To his contemporaries, Jason exemplified how Thorvaldsen had skillfully revitalized classical antiquity with all its connotations – including the hope for freedom in the future. Hope's marble version of Jason was purchased by Thorvaldsen's Museum at an auction held in England in 1917.