ERCOLE DREI
(Faenza, 1886 - Rome, 1973)
Apollo and Daphne (1938)
Plaster
Height 65 cm
Length 60 cm
Width 18 cm
Signed on the base “DREI”
Bibliography:
DREI SCULTORE, “Summa critica” edited by R.Buscaroli, Tamari Editori in Bologna, 1964, fig 57; ERCOLE DREI - Eternal modern classic language. Echoes from the Twentieth Century 6 - Studiolo, Milan 2020 edited by G.Cribiori, table 25; Fra le righe, edited by G.Cribiori, 9cento Milano Edizioni, 2023, Table 125, p 201
This representation of Apollo and Daphne, apparently very traditional, shows a Daphne in “almost” desperate flight from an Apollo who appears more adoring than overbearing, like a suitor intent on courting and convincing the desired nymph not to leave.
The originally dramatic sense of the scene is further tempered by Apollo's right hand which, with absolute nonchalance, caresses Daphne's breast, in the act of moving away from him, without much conviction.
This interpretation may appear bold with respect to a work by Drei, yet to the eyes of the writer the artist's desire to soften the tone of the treated theme is evident.
The modeling is carried out in a rather meticulous manner, with considerable attention to detail, despite the fact that the work maintains the typical freshness of the sketch, which shows evident traces of Drei's craftsmanship.
ERCOLE DREI
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