Ulysses on the Island of Calypso at The Palais des Beaux-Arts in Lille, France

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This larger-than-life figurative sculpture in marble was carved by Théophile François Marcel Bra, a French Romantic sculptor born on June 23, 1797, in Douai and passing away in 1863. Bra was a contemporary of Eugène Delacroix and shared similar qualities through his uncompromising personality and complex spirituality. His work embodies the essence of the Romantic era, drawing inspiration from Goya's universes as well as those of William Blake and Victor Hugo. A man of many interests, Bra was both a passionate Christian follower of Swedenborg and an admirer of Judaism, Hinduism, and Buddhism. The sculpture depicts Olysses, also known as Odysseus, in Homer's epic Odyssey after he washes ashore on the Island of Calypso. The story goes that Calypso kept the Greek hero Odysseus prisoner on her island for seven years, according to Homer, or five years as Pseudo-Apollodorus claims, and one year according to Hyginus. Calypso enchants Odysseus with her singing as she weaves on her loom with a golden shuttle, captivating him with her beauty. Odysseus can no longer bear being separated from his wife Penelope and wishes to go to Calypso to tell her. His patron goddess Athena asks Zeus to order the release of Odysseus from the island, and Zeus commands the messenger Hermes to inform Calypso that she must set Odysseus free. It was not his destiny to live with her forever, and the gods hate it when goddesses have affairs with mortals. Calypso eventually concedes, sending Odysseus on his way after providing him with wine, bread, and materials for a raft. This object is part of "Scan The World," a non-profit initiative introduced by MyMiniFactory that aims to create a digital archive of fully 3D printable sculptures, artworks, and landmarks from around the world. The community-driven effort, known as Scan the World, allows anyone to contribute interesting items and access them for free. If you have something special to share, email stw@myminifactory.com to learn how you can help make a difference.