Persephone1.0054

Gian Lorenzo Bernini, 1598-1680, "Pluto and Proserpine" (The Rape of Proserpine), over-lifesize marble sculpture, 1621-1622, Galleria Borghese, Rome.

Mythological:
Cerberus barks in apparent delight as Hades abducts the struggling Persephone. The unusual photographic angle of the sculpture at right emphasizes one of the sculpture's more commonly observed details, the force of Hades' grasp on the girl's side and thigh. Note also, though, the look of anguish on her face... and the look of glee on his. It's ML's "grim character of Hades..." ML 347

Artistic:
Bernini uses the classical text and traditional iconography, but excels especially in "mannerist" virtuosity: a blend of realism derived from antiquity and three-dimensional expressiveness. The god's musculature and girl's panic-stricken features accord nicely with Bernini's virtuosity. Narrative gain: Is Bernini more interested in telling an old tale or in showing how well it could be done in this medium? Beating a classical author at the game would really make Bernini's day.