The Fall of Phaeton

mid 16th century

Central Italian 16th Century, after the Antique

Associated Names
The sculpture features a dynamic scene with figures, horses, and a chariot. At the center, two horses are sculpted mid-movement pulling a chariot, driven by a figure holding the reins. On the right side, a male figure appears to be falling backwards from the chariot. On the left side, another figure seems to be gesturing or reaching out. Below the central scene, there is a depiction of water pouring from an overturned vessel and a bird in front of it. The sculpture is oval in shape and made of metal, with a bronze-like color. The scene is intricately detailed, giving a sense of motion and action frozen in time.

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This object’s media is free and in the public domain. Read our full Open Access policy for images.

Artwork overview

  • Medium

    silver

  • Credit Line

    Gift of Lisa and Leonard Baskin

  • Dimensions

    overall: 4 x 4.9 cm (1 9/16 x 1 15/16 in.) gross weight: 12 gr

  • Accession Number

    1995.27.1


Artwork history & notes

Provenance

Purchased by Lisa and Leonard Baskin, Leeds, Massachusetts; gift 1995 to NGA.

Associated Names

Wikidata ID

Q63860689

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