Paris

Art Historical Context

**Paris** by Antico (Pier Jacopo Alari Bonacolsi), crafted around 1518–1524, captures the mythological Trojan prince in a poised, classical nude pose, likely referencing the Judgment of Paris from Greek myth. This exquisite small-scale bronze sculpture, standing about 14 5/8 inches tall, showcases Paris holding apples—symbols of the fateful beauty contest among goddesses Hera, Athena, and Aphrodite. Antico, a leading Mantuan sculptor favored by the Gonzaga court, excelled in reviving antique ideals during the Renaissance, blending idealized anatomy with intimate, jewel-like detail. The medium is a marvel of Renaissance technique: cast bronze enhanced with partial fire-gilding for glowing golden accents and silver inlays that catch the light, evoking luxury and divine radiance. These methods elevated bronzes from mere metalwork to collector's treasures, mimicking the patina and precision of ancient Roman statuettes Antico studied and reproduced. Housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art's European Sculpture and Decorative Arts collection, this piece highlights Mantua's vibrant early 16th-century artistic patronage. Antico's works, like this one, bridged classical antiquity and Renaissance humanism, delighting collectors with their tactile refinement and narrative depth—perfect for contemplation in a princely studiolo.