Richard Aurili

RICHARD AURILI (Italy, 1834-ca.1914).
"Hercules fighting against Achelous".
Patinated plaster.
Signed on the base.
With stamp on the back: Richarme.
Measurements: 36 x 84 x 28 cm.

The sculpture represents a significant episode of the Greek mythology, where the hero Heracles (Hercules in the Roman tradition) faces the fluvial god Aqueloo transfigured in bull. Aqueloo, the largest river god in Greece, was known for his ability to change shape. In this myth, the two contest for the hand of Deyanira, daughter of the king of Calidon. During the fight, Achelaus transforms into various creatures in an attempt to defeat Hercules, including a snake and, most notably, a bull. Hercules, with his superhuman strength, succeeds in overpowering the god, tearing off one of his horns in his bull form. From this horn, according to legend, would be born the Cornucopia or Horn of Plenty, symbol of fertility and prosperity.

Richard Aurili was an Italian sculptor who worked in France. He lived and exhibited in Belgium until 1890. He then moved to Paris, where his works were exhibited at the Salon Des Artistes Francais. In this bust, the author captures with verism Napoleon's hard expression, in a haughty rictus and with a frown. Wearing a military bicorn headdress, he carries the imperial eagle and a baton as attributes.