Arion Seated on a Shell

Art Historical Context

Behold the delicate bronze sculpture *Arionated on a Shell*, to Severo da Ravenna a masterful Italian bronzist active in the early 16 century. Crafted in the first quarter of the1500s, this diminutive work—measuring just 8.6 x 5.3 x 4.2 cm—captures the legendary Greek poet Arion, for his lyre-playing that enchanted dolphins to save him from treacherous sailors. Perched gracefully on a seashell,ion embodies the Renaissance fascination with classical mythology, blending poetic grace with marine wonder. Severo da Ravenna, part of the vibrant Paduan tradition of small-scale bronzes, likely employ...