Leda and the Swan
early 17th century
Medium
bronze//Light red-brown patina
Dimensions
overall (oval, without loop): 6.1 x 4.8 cm (2 3/8 x 1 7/8 in.) gross weight: 26 gr
Classification
Sculpture
Department
CSD
Museum
National Gallery of Art, Washington, D.C.
Credit
Samuel H. Kress Collection
Accession Number
1957.14.586
Art Historical Context
This exquisite small bronze plaque by Paul Hübner portrays the timeless Greek myth of Leda and the Swan, in which Zeus, disguised as a swan, approaches the Spartan queen. Created in the early 17th century, the oval relief captures this dramatic encounter with graceful lines and subtle modeling, reflecting the period’s renewed interest in classical stories as vehicles for exploring themes of transformation and desire. Measuring just 6.1 by 4.8 centimeters and weighing only 26 grams, the work is cast in bronze with a warm light red-brown patina that enhances its tactile quality. The compact sca...