Meleager

myminifactory

Lead was a sought-after material for garden sculpture due to its relatively low cost (£20 in this case), allowing it to be cast in a mould for mass production. Often lead groups were reproductions of famous classical or Renaissance marble groups, but this 18th-century composition stands out. Many sculptors replicated famous classical or Renaissance marble groups, such as the Borghese Gladiator and Giambologna's sculpture, frequently drawing inspiration from Netherlandish artists like Carpenter and John Nost, a native Dutchman who had developed necessary skills in Europe. This piece depicts the mythical hero Meleager, who killed the savage Calydonian boar. He is shown here with his hunting dog. The figure probably sat atop a gate-pier, and it's one of several garden sculptures in lead created during the first half of the 18th century. Sculptor Andrew Carpenter originally hailed from the Netherlands or France and was first recorded in London in 1702. He worked primarily in marble but produced numerous garden sculptures in lead, including pieces for Wrest Park in Bedfordshire and Canons in Middlesex. Carpenter had worked with John Nost the Elder as his principal assistant and established a workshop specializing in lead sculptures near Hyde Park by 1714. Gallery location: Sculpture, Room 23, The Dorothy and Michael Hintze Galleries, case FS This object is part of "Scan The World." Scan The World is a non-profit initiative introduced by MyMiniFactory, creating a digital archive of fully 3D printable sculptures, artworks, and landmarks from across the globe for public access free. Scan The World is an open-source community effort; if you have interesting items around you and want to contribute, email stw@myminifactory.com to find out how you can help. Courtesy of the Victoria and Albert Museum, London.