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Seated woman representing Astrology

Giambologna Netherlandish
mid-1570s
On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 536
Giambologna seldom drew; he explored ideas by modeling them. This rare wax sketch is an early study for a seated, draped female nude that was composed to be pleasing from every viewpoint. The rotating pose, which evokes the revolutions of the planets and stars, is apt for a personification of Astrology. A celestial sphere rests precariously behind the figure’s feet.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Seated woman representing Astrology
  • Artist: Giambologna (Netherlandish, Douai 1529–1608 Florence)
  • Date: mid-1570s
  • Culture: Italian
  • Medium: Red wax
  • Dimensions: Overall (confirmed, on socle): 5 3/4 × 1 7/8 × 1 7/8 in. (14.6 × 4.8 × 4.8 cm)
  • Classification: Sculpture
  • Credit Line: Gift of The Quentin Foundation, in celebration of the Museum's 150th Anniversary, 2017
  • Object Number: 2017.725
  • Curatorial Department: European Sculpture and Decorative Arts

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