Ugolino and his Sons

myminifactory

In the 13th century, Ugolino della Gherardesca ruled over the Guelphs in Pisa's Italian city. Betrayal charges were brought against him by his archbishop rival, Ubaldini dei Ruggieri, who imprisoned Ugolino and his four sons in a tower where they all succumbed to starvation. Ugolino's fortunes are vividly described by Dante Alighieri in Inferno's Canto 32-33. The theme resonated powerfully in 19th-century sculpture, with both Jean-Baptiste Carpeaux and Auguste Rodin crafting sculptures inspired by it. Lambeaux brought a fresh perspective to Ugolino and his sons, showcasing his debt to Rodin and his affinity for the tormented style of young George Minne. The image represents a previously unknown composition, perhaps existing in only one copy.