The Oath of Spartacus at The Jardin des Tuileries, Paris

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The Oath of Spartacus is a marble sculpture created by Louis-Ernest Barrias between 1869 and 1871 based on a plaster piece by the same artist. Since 1875, it has been on display in Le Jardin des Tuileries in Paris. This sculpture depicts a dying man attached to a tree where he was crucified. His left arm and head rest on a young boy standing beside him. The boy with wavy hair and a determined look once held a knife in his right hand, but it is now damaged. He holds two fingers of the dying slave's hand with affection. The title suggests that this is young Spartacus vowing to avenge the man's death. In ancient Rome, crucifixion was a punishment reserved for those who were not Roman citizens, often slaves, robbers, pirates, or prisoners of war. The scene is actually imaginary since we know nothing about the childhood of the Thracian slave Spartacus, who around thirty shook the Roman power in the Third Servile War. The strength of the work lies in the contrast between the boy's love and sweetness next to the tormented man and his determination. The tender way he holds two fingers as the man leans forward is remarkable. The boy rests his arm on the man's leg, also holding a knife with a look of vengeance on his face. Like divine justice, he leaves no doubt about his intentions. He will avenge this man for whom he feels such tenderness and who is dying at his side. This object is part of the "Scan The World" initiative by MyMiniFactory, which aims to create a digital archive of fully 3D printable sculptures, artworks, and landmarks from around the globe for public access. Scan The World is an open-source community effort where anyone with interesting items can contribute. If you have something to share, email stw@myminifactory.com to learn how to help.